The Brunei-US Association (BUSA) recently hosted the United States (US) Independence Day Workshop themed ‘Empowering Heart, Inspiring Change’ at The Learners Bar, Kampong Kiulap.
The workshop aimed to elevate the spirit of volunteerism and how to kick-start youth action.
ASEAN Youth Advocates Network (AYAN) Brunei Co-Directors Joshua Belayan and Izazi Mosli led the panel discussion.
Izazi highlighted that volunteering should not be driven solely by the desire to accumulate certificates. “Instead, it should stem from a genuine passion for the activity of one’s interest.”
Izazi said, “That will bring a more profound sense of purpose and satisfaction to volunteering. ‘Do it because you love it’.”
Joshua added that the joy of volunteering is connecting with like-minded individuals sharing similar passions.
“Building relationships within the volunteering community provides a support system and opens doors to new ideas, collaborations, and future opportunities. ‘Connect with more people and find as many opportunities as possible’.”
They reminded the participants to embrace a growth mindset. “Volunteering is not without its challenges. There were times we had setbacks, rejections, or moments of self-doubt… believe that every ‘no’ you encounter brings you closer to a ‘yes,’” Joshua said.
Joshua began his volunteering journey as a lead delegate in both Southeast Asian Cultural Heritage Alliance (SEACHA) and ASEAN Youth for Climate Action Dialogue. Izazi began volunteering with AYAN Brunei in late 2020 and spearheaded AYAN Brunei’s success as the Bruneian grantee for the Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative (YSEALI) Seeds for the Future Grant 2022.
