The Ancestral Domain Division of the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs – BARMM momentously organized the IP Youth Leaders Conference and the launch of the Fusaka Inged Young Leaders Program on October 22, 2024, at the City Mall Convention Hall in Cotabato City.

During the Opening Message of Andic B. Maningula, Ex-Oficio-Commissioner Representing IPs Youth in BARMM that, “This initiative aims to empower Indigenous Peoples’ (IP) youth and engage them in meaningful discussions about their rights and heritage. Recognizing the challenges many young people face, the event aimed to help IP youth by providing education on ancestral domains, promoting mental health awareness, and fostering leadership skills.”

One of the highlights of the conference was an engaging presentation by Ms. Nairah M. Dumawal, RPm, from the Mental Health Unit of the Ministry of Health. She emphasized the critical importance of mental health, especially among youth, passionately stating, “You cannot help others if you are struggling yourself.” Ms. Dumawal highlighted that mental health is essential for recognizing our potential and coping with life’s stresses. She also encouraged participants to develop effective coping mechanisms and expressed happiness that, during the workshop, the top three coping strategies identified by the participants were talking to family or friends, prayer or religious practices, and engaging in creative outlets.

In addition to Ms. Dumawal’s insights, Ms. Settie Ivy C. Ampatuan, the Officer-in-Charge and Division Chief of the Bangsamoro Youth Commission (BYC), inspired the participants with her thoughts on leadership, volunteerism, and partnership building. She emphasized the importance of stepping up to help others and encouraged young people to seek out opportunities that align with their passions while addressing community needs.

Moreover, Dr. Jonaib M. Usman, from the MBHTE-TESD-BARMM, shared the ministry’s commitment to ensuring access to education and skills training for all youth in BARMM, highlighting the priority given to Indigenous Peoples.

The day was marked by the collective commitment of our youth leaders to engage actively in their communities and prioritize their well-being. As Hon. Melanio U. Ulama, Minister of MIPA-BARMM, passionately stated, “Education is a gift that can never be taken away.” He called upon the youth to focus on their studies and invest in their futures while reminding them of their vital role as future leaders. Hon. Suadi C. Pagayao, Deputy Minister of MIPA, along with Hon. Judith G. Tinio, Ph.D., Director General of MIPA, and Rodolyn P. Andres, Chief of the Ancestral Domain Division, also expressed their messages of support, solidarity, and commitment to empowering the youth.

As we move forward, let us carry the energy and passion from this conference with us, working together to uplift our communities and empower our youth to become the leaders they are destined to be. Together, we can create a brighter future for all.

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