SMAYL

Philippines, 2021

SMAYL is a phonetic distortion of “smile” and stands for Seeds for Mindanao’s Advocacy and Youth Leadership. Our hallmark program is a hybridized short course especially designed for young peacebuilders. While young peacebuilders have captured the spotlight among peacebuilding practitioners, funders, and scholars internationally, there is prevalent unsustainability among youth peacebuilding initiatives, thus the need to develop a locally grown support system for young peacebuilders. Such a ‘local turn’ in peacebuilding empowers the locals and is also linked to peacebuilding sustainability.

The Story of SMAYL

In the heart of Mindanao, where the echoes of conflict have long shaped the landscape, a new narrative is emerging—one of hope, resilience, and youthful determination. This is the story of SMAYL, or Seeds for Mindanao’s Advocacy and Youth Leadership, a project that has become a beacon for young peacebuilders in the region. Through its innovative approach and unwavering commitment, SMAYL is not just planting seeds of change; it is nurturing a garden of sustainable peace.

A Response to a Persistent Challenge

The journey of SMAYL began with a question that haunted its founders: Why do so many youth-led peacebuilding initiatives in Mindanao falter despite the passion and energy invested in them? The answer, as they discovered, lay in the lack of a locally grown support system. Young peacebuilders often faced mistrust, underestimation, and intergenerational power dynamics, leading to the premature demise of their initiatives. In a region marked by the world’s second-oldest conflict, this was a challenge that demanded a solution.

SMAYL was born out of a desire to address this endemic problem. The founders conducted a rapid appraisal and found over 150 youth-led peacebuilding initiatives across six regions in Mindanao. However, these initiatives were plagued by unsustainability, often operating for mere months or relying heavily on external funding. The need for a local support mechanism that could harmonize these efforts was clear. Thus, SMAYL set out to create a network of young peacebuilders, providing them with the skills and support necessary to thrive.

The SMAYL Approach

At the core of SMAYL’s mission is the establishment of a robust network of young peacebuilders. This network is supported by two key components: a 54-hour short course and an online learning hub. The short course offers participants theoretical and practical tools for managing peacebuilding projects, from planning to evaluation. It also provides a platform for sharing challenges and success stories, fostering a sense of community among young peacebuilders.

The online learning hub, on the other hand, serves as a continuous support and feedback mechanism. It is a space where young peacebuilders and mentors can connect, share insights, and collaborate on projects. This hybrid approach—combining lectures, small group discussions, and individual reflections—ensures that participants receive a comprehensive and engaging learning experience.

Achievements and Impact

Since its inception in February 2021, SMAYL has made significant strides. The project crafted a pilot curriculum for its inaugural short course, attracting 15 speakers and experts from diverse backgrounds, including the Philippines, India, Australia, the United States, and the United Kingdom. It identified 11 youth organizations and enrolled 41 participants, representing various peacebuilding organizations across Mindanao.

SMAYL’s impact extends beyond the classroom. The project is currently accepting book chapter proposals for an edited volume on youth, peacebuilding, and sustainability, set to be published in September 2021. It has also gained recognition, being featured in online and TV programs, local newspapers, and university websites. These accomplishments are a testament to SMAYL’s commitment to fostering sustainable peace in Mindanao.

The Heartbeat of SMAYL

The journey of SMAYL has been one of learning and growth. The team has discovered the importance of communication, respect for each other’s time, and a shared passion for the work they do. Despite the challenges posed by travel restrictions, the team has maintained regular communication through email and social media, ensuring that the project continues to thrive.

One of the most significant lessons learned is the value of being results-oriented. The team meets every fortnight, starting and ending meetings on time, and sticking to the agenda. This disciplined approach has allowed SMAYL to remain focused and productive, even in the face of adversity.

The Future of SMAYL

As SMAYL looks to the future, its goals remain ambitious and clear. The project aims to expand its network of young peacebuilders, providing them with ongoing support and opportunities for growth. With the help of YSEALI Seeds, SMAYL is poised to achieve these goals through training, technical support, and financial assistance.

The story of SMAYL is one of hope and resilience. It is a story that resonates with youth leaders across the globe, inspiring future applicants to join the movement for sustainable peace. As SMAYL continues to grow and evolve, it remains a shining example of what can be achieved when young people come together with a shared vision and unwavering determination.

In the words of one of SMAYL’s founders, “Our desire is vibrant enough; we just need a local support system that understands our plight and the dynamics on the ground.” With SMAYL, that support system is now a reality, and the seeds of peace are taking root in Mindanao.

Join the Movement

Are you a young peacebuilder eager to create lasting change in your community? YSEALI Seeds for the Future 2025 is your opportunity to turn your vision into reality, just as SMAYL successfully did in Mindanao. SMAYL tackled the challenge of unsustainable youth-led initiatives by building a strong local support network, providing vital skills training, and fostering a culture of resilience. By applying for YSEALI Seeds, you too can access essential training, technical support, and a vibrant network to bring your peacebuilding ideas to life. Apply now for YSEALI Seeds for the Future 2025 and become part of a movement that empowers young leaders to address real-world challenges. With the support of YSEALI, you will gain the skills, confidence, and connections needed to make a tangible impact, just like the inspiring young leaders of SMAYL. Don’t miss this chance to cultivate change and contribute to sustainable peace in your region. Visit the YSEALI Seeds website to learn more and apply today!