Ateneo de Davao University (ADDU) students participated 2023 Leaders Conference at Thammasat University in Thailand from 15-17 June 2023. With the theme “For the Social Betterment,” the conference brought together student and youth leaders from various countries to address significant challenges in their local communities. The event focused on enhancing participants’ skills in project development and presentations, providing a platform for students to collaborate and find solutions to global issues.
Over 600 participants and 50 groups hailing from six different nationalities, including Thailand, the Philippines, Vietnam, China, Australia, and Korea, gathered and showcased their impactful projects during the conference. Each team focused on a specific category, driven by a shared commitment to make a positive impact and effect change.
Among the participants, the Ad Astra team, known as LC 27, comprised students from Ateneo de Davao University, Pagadian City Science High School, San Pedro College, and the Singapore International School of Bangkok in Chiang Mai.
The Ad Astra team developed a project called “PROJECT SEED,” centered on addressing poverty through an exploration of Thailand’s rich history, particularly the influence of religion and ethnicity on societal norms. Leveraging the traditional weaving practices of the Muslim-Malay and Buddhist-Thai communities, the team incorporated local materials, specifically pineapple fiber, abundant in various regions of Thailand.
Inspired by the art of weaving using pineapple fiber, reminiscent of the renowned piñatex from Aklan, a province in the Philippines, the team tackled conflicts between Islam and Buddhism, unemployment, pineapple waste, and community development, ultimately working towards reducing poverty and increasing employment opportunities.
During the conference, the Ad Astra team’s dedication and ingenuity earned them the prestigious first place in the “Poverty” category. Their remarkable achievement also positioned them among the top 10 teams from the 600+ participants and 50+ groups representing various nationalities, solidifying their reputation as leaders in social entrepreneurship and innovation.
The team comprises the following students: Emmanuel D. Baltazar II (Bachelor of Science in Entrepreneurship, Ateneo de Davao University, Philippines); Ploynapat Siripatpakdee (Singapore International School of Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Thailand); Kazan Salus A. Advincula (Bachelor of Science in Business Management, Ateneo de Davao University, Philippines); Yuanne Emmanuel E. Eling (Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering, Ateneo de Davao University); Lyzel Mae S. Vistal (Bachelor of Secondary Education Major in English, Ateneo de Davao University); Pia Monica T. Lovitos (Bachelor of Arts Major in Political Science, Ateneo de Davao University); Iris Lovitos (Bachelor of Science in Nursing, San Pedro College Davao); and Lyster Lloyd L. Maliao (Pagadian City Science High School).
Congratulations! Ad majorem Dei gloriam!
Article and Photos by Mr. Emmanuel D. Baltazar II
