Rizal Faisal
Nationality is a fundamental human right that all countries should seek to uphold.
The crucial issue was recently brought up by a participant of the Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative (YSEALI) Academic Fellowship for the Spring 2023 Cohort, who returned from their posting.
Brandon Chin Wei Chun, a lawyer by practice, was embedded in the programme under the care of Arizona State University for the Civic Engagement theme.
“I aim to raise awareness about this global issue, which has been a matter of concern for the United Nations,” he said.
During an interview with the Bulletin, Chin shared his experience from the Civic Engagement programme, which focusses on empowering young leaders in Southeast Asia to actively participate in their communities and contribute to positive social change.
“The programme encourages activities such as volunteerism, community work, advocacy, and political participation to address local and regional challenges,” he said.
Chin met 20 other young leaders from the ASEAN region in Arizona. He found that they advocated for severe and meaningful issues, including child sexual abuse, migrant workers’ rights, and support for those affected by the Myanmar military coup.
The experience was “intimately eye-opening”, as he witnessed his fellow cohorts’ passion and dedication in bringing about change in their communities.
Reflecting on his five-week programme, Chin shared that he volunteered at the Society of Saint Vincent De Paul.
The international voluntary organisation provides education, food, and enrichment opportunities for the underprivileged.
During the period, he attended briefings on the homelessness epidemic in the United States (US) and the international refugee crisis, which deepened his understanding of these pressing issues.
While the programme had serious aspects, Chin also had a memorable moment visiting the Grand Canyon, marvelling at its breathtaking beauty.
Throughout his time in Arizona, Chin learnt first-hand how individuals could impact their communities. The inspiring young leaders he spent weeks with showcased passion, vigour, and perseverance that left a lasting impression on him.
He underlined the importance of finding and growing with a supportive community of like-minded individuals, stating, “There is the family you are born to, and there is the family you find and grow with. I leave with a refreshed perspective on life, knowing that we can play our part in making this world a better place.”
Chin concluded the interview by sharing a quote that resonated with his group during their time in the US: “If not us, who? If not now, when?”
The event, hosted by the US Embassy in May, allowed the returning alumni to network among themselves and engage with the media at the embassy grounds.
This year marks the 10th anniversary of the US Embassy’s exchange programme for Bruneian youth, including the YSEALI.
The YSEALI offers various programmes, such as the YSEALI Academic Fellowship Programme, YSEALI Academy at Fulbright (Vietnam), YSEALI Women’s Leadership Academy (WLA), and YSEALI Seeds for the Future grant competition.
These programmes involve academic or professional fellowships in the US or shorter regional workshops in the ASEAN region.
US Embassy in Brunei Darussalam Public Affairs Officer Jeff Barus reminded the alumni that they are now part of an elite network of young leaders across Southeast Asia. The network collectively works to address critical global challenges and expand opportunities.
Barus emphasised that over 100,000 youth in Southeast Asia have joined the YSEALI network to gain leadership skills and find solutions to regional and global challenges.