AYAN Brunei

Brunei, 2022

ASEAN Youth Advocates Network Brunei Darussalam (AYAN Brunei) is a youth-led NGO that aims to provide a platform to encourage ASEAN youths to become further involved in their local communities. Born in the midst of the pandemic, AYAN Brunei began with a series of small-scale advocacy-based initiatives but as we continue to grow, we hope to expand in both our project size as well as our impact—seeking to involve a wider range of demographics in our participating audiences, while finding innovative ways to educate and empower ASEAN youths to harness their interests and advocacies.

AYAN Brunei’s Journey from Small-Scale Initiatives to Regional Impact

In the heart of Southeast Asia, a vibrant movement is quietly reshaping the landscape of youth advocacy. The ASEAN Youth Advocates Network Brunei Darussalam, affectionately known as AYAN Brunei, is a youth-led NGO that emerged during the pandemic’s challenging times. What began as a series of small-scale advocacy initiatives has blossomed into a powerful force for change, inspiring ASEAN youths to engage actively in their communities. This is the story of AYAN Brunei—a tale of passion, perseverance, and the pursuit of a brighter future.

The Mission: Empowering ASEAN Youths

AYAN Brunei’s mission is simple yet profound: to provide a platform that encourages ASEAN youths to become more involved in their local communities. The organization believes that young people possess the potential to drive meaningful change, and it seeks to harness this potential by equipping them with the knowledge, skills, and resources they need to become advocates for their communities.

The organization’s journey began in 2021, with mentorship and guidance from the Brunei Youth Council, Community for Brunei, and AYAN Global. This support laid the foundation for AYAN Brunei’s ambitious initiatives, which aim to foster a sense of confidence and empowerment among ASEAN youths. The organization envisions a future where young people are not just passive observers but active participants in shaping their communities.

Impact and Achievements: A Year of Growth

Thanks to the YSEALI Seeds for the Future Grant, AYAN Brunei has been able to expand its reach and impact significantly. The grant has provided the organization with the creative freedom and resources needed to execute community projects with better planning and quality. This newfound support has allowed AYAN Brunei to transition from small-scale events to larger, more impactful programs.

One of the organization’s notable achievements is the “Healing Through Creativity” program, held in conjunction with Mental Health Awareness Month. This multi-day event provided a platform for young people to express themselves creatively while raising awareness about mental health issues. Another significant milestone was the Mock COP Climate Change Seminar, inspired by the COP26 event in Glasgow. This seminar brought together young minds to discuss and propose solutions to climate change, fostering a sense of responsibility and urgency among participants.

AYAN Brunei’s impact extends beyond these events. The organization has successfully engaged a diverse range of demographics, promoting community engagement and active youth participation. Through roundtable talk sessions, Pidato challenge competitions, and seminars on capacity building, racial diversity, and Indigenous people’s rights, AYAN Brunei has created spaces for dialogue and action on pressing issues.

Lessons Learned: Navigating Challenges and Celebrating Successes

The journey of AYAN Brunei has been filled with valuable lessons. One of the most significant insights gained is the importance of understanding team members’ abilities. By recognizing each individual’s strengths and weaknesses, tasks can be delegated more efficiently, ensuring that projects run smoothly. Additionally, managing a reliable timeframe is crucial, especially when collaborating with other organizations and governmental bodies.

AYAN Brunei’s success is also attributed to its clear vision and objectives. The organization emphasizes the importance of having a well-defined project focus, which helps maintain direction and purpose. Budgeting is another critical aspect of project development, allowing the team to track expenses and prioritize different project components effectively.

Future Aspirations: A Vision for Lasting Change

As AYAN Brunei looks to the future, its aspirations are as ambitious as ever. The organization aims to continue being a key driver of discourse and action around current affairs affecting Brunei and its neighboring communities. By fostering knowledge, skills, and key resources, AYAN Brunei hopes to equip generations of ASEAN youths with the confidence to be advocates of change in their respective communities.

The organization also seeks to expand its collaborations with local and regional organizations, promoting the importance of collective effort in inciting global change. AYAN Brunei envisions a future where young people are empowered to create lasting social impact across all four YSEALI Seeds themes.

Inspiring Future Leaders: A Call to Action

AYAN Brunei’s journey is a testament to the power of youth-led initiatives and the impact they can have on communities. For aspiring youth leaders and future applicants, AYAN Brunei serves as a source of inspiration and a reminder that meaningful change is possible with dedication and collaboration.

As AYAN Brunei continues to grow and evolve, it invites young people across ASEAN to join the movement. Together, they can create a future where youth voices are heard, and their actions lead to positive social impact. The journey may be challenging, but with passion and perseverance, the possibilities are limitless.

In the words of AYAN Brunei, “We hope our projects will help individuals in the community realize how much of an impact and lasting change they can create with the proper channels and support.” The call to action is clear: let’s build a better future, one initiative at a time.

Join the Movement

Are you ready to transform your passion into action and drive meaningful change in your community? The inspiring journey of AYAN Brunei— from small-scale initiatives to a regional powerhouse— demonstrates the incredible potential of youth-led advocacy. If you're passionate about creating a positive social impact and empowering ASEAN youths, now is your chance to make a difference by joining YSEALI Seeds for the Future 2025. By applying, you'll gain access to the resources, mentorship, and support you need to bring your vision to life, just as AYAN Brunei did. Whether it's advocating for mental health, addressing climate change, or promoting racial diversity, YSEALI Seeds will provide the platform and opportunity to expand your reach and impact. Don't wait to be a passive observer; become an active participant in shaping a better future. Apply now and step into a world where your ideas and actions can create lasting change.