I am grateful to share with you all my experiences and reflections on the International Council of IYCW that took place in Lima, Peru.
It is a great honor to be a part of the international council to expand my knowledge and experience about the world of work, different cultures, and the condition of young workers in different parts of the world and explore different methods together and to learn from sharing of the different action experiences and realities of the young people in Pawana and with other exchange participants from Philippines, Germany, Venezuela, Indonesia, Brazil, Dominican Republic, Guatemala and Chile.
 
The exchange program I attended in Pawana was a great experience.  A small community where young people live simply.  I was amazed by their rich culture, on how they care on the nature and most of all the feeling of the people in the community like a big family that cares, work together and lives happily.
Despite the lack of government programs in their community, they are still able to create various methods to develop their livelihood from their creativity and dedication using their combined skills and talents to create something that will help.  In their livelihood without putting aside the appreciation of their culture.
 
Their culture and lifestyle in their community is not far away from the condition of the Philippines but it is hard to imagine that this is gradually disappearing due to the rise of modern technologies such as social media where the attention of many young people is spend most of their time  which creates a change in the culture of many Filipinos causing the gradual loss of important Filipino cultures and values.  In something that should never be lost and replaced because it reminds us of who we are.

Another important things I learned is the importance of unity and valuing each other. To look back and discover more important things that will inspire and motivate us as we walk the way towards a new humane society. I was honored and having an activity like this is a great help for me to broaden my understanding of the realities of the young workers. It was a wonderful and fruitful experience.

Brian Geronimo

IYCW-ASPAC Coordinator