SKale Up

Philippines, 2022

SKale Up Workshops aim to foster participatory, inclusive, and innovative governance in the Philippines by empowering youth to take part in the developments and political processes in the country. Its sessions consist of 2-day workshops, discussions, and other activities which highlight the role of youth in bringing about change and creating pragmatic, and sustainable solutions for current issues in their communities. After the workshop, participants are able to submit their youth agendas to their respective local youth development offices, local government units, and/or local youth-led organizations. Promoting meaningful, and holistic participation of young Filipinos in society, they are also expected to be more active in local youth activities in their cities.

SKale Up Workshops: Empowering Filipino Youth for Inclusive Governance

In the heart of the Philippines, a movement is quietly gaining momentum, one that seeks to redefine youth participation in governance. The SKale Up Workshops, a project spearheaded by iLinang Philippines, is not just another initiative; it’s a call to action for the young minds of the nation to step up and shape their future. As the first democracy in Asia, the Philippines has long championed youth involvement in governance, yet genuine participation remains elusive. SKale Up is here to change that narrative.

Nurturing Youth Participation

The SKale Up Workshops aim to foster participatory, inclusive, and innovative governance by empowering the youth to actively engage in political processes. Through two-day workshops, discussions, and activities, young Filipinos are encouraged to bring about change and create sustainable solutions for their communities. The mission is clear: to promote meaningful participation and leadership among the youth, ensuring they have a voice in shaping their cities and towns.

But why does this matter? Despite reforms, youth political participation in the Philippines has been hindered by poverty and systemic challenges. In 2020, the Department of Interior and Local Government highlighted vacancies in barangays with no elected Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) members, underscoring the need for initiatives like SKale Up. The project is a response to this gap, mobilizing the youth as changemakers and leaders.

A Ripple Effect

Since its inception, SKale Up has made significant strides. The first face-to-face workshop in Iriga City, Camarines Sur, saw 40 participants, many of whom have since become active in their communities. Some have even registered their own organizations, a testament to the project’s impact. Partnerships with national agencies like the National Youth Commission and local offices have further strengthened the initiative.

One of the most inspiring success stories comes from Iriga City, where participants have founded organizations recognized under the National Youth Commission’s Youth Organization Registration Program. This accreditation allows them to be part of the Iriga City Youth Development Council, where they can influence programs and activities for their peers. Moreover, these young leaders are now involved in updating the city’s Local Climate Change Action Plan, contributing to broader governance efforts.

The Power of Collaboration

The journey of SKale Up has been one of learning and growth. The workshops have highlighted the importance of youth voices in governance, proving that young people can identify local issues and propose innovative solutions. Context matters, and understanding the unique challenges and opportunities in each area has been crucial. Engaging youth leaders and discussing local situations have inspired participants to take action.

Collaboration has been a cornerstone of SKale Up’s success. By partnering with national and local organizations, the project has amplified its impact. Together, these collaborations have created a more robust platform for youth engagement, demonstrating the power of working together towards a common goal.

Future Aspirations

Looking ahead, SKale Up has ambitious goals. The project seeks to harness the capacities and skills of young Filipinos in local governance, raising potential leaders who can participate in decision-making processes. By fostering collaboration among youth organizations, SKale Up aims to create a network of empowered young leaders across the country.

The support from YSEALI Seeds has been instrumental in turning these aspirations into reality. It has enabled SKale Up to reach more Filipino youth, foster partnerships, and actualize its objectives. The future holds exciting possibilities as the project continues to expand its reach and impact.

Inspiring the Next Generation

For youth leaders and aspiring changemakers, SKale Up is more than a project; it’s an invitation to be part of something bigger. It’s a chance to contribute to a movement that values their voices and empowers them to make a difference. The success stories from Iriga City and beyond are a testament to what can be achieved when young people are given the tools and opportunities to lead.

As the SKale Up Workshops continue to grow, they serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration for the next generation of Filipino leaders. The journey is far from over, but with each step, the vision of inclusive governance becomes more attainable. For those ready to take on the challenge, SKale Up offers a platform to learn, grow, and make a lasting impact on their communities and the nation.

Join the Movement

Are you passionate about making a real difference in your community and driving change in governance? The YSEALI Seeds for the Future 2025 program is your opportunity to bring your ideas to life! Building on the success of initiatives like SKale Up, which empowered Filipino youths through workshops to become active participants and leaders in governance, YSEALI Seeds can provide you with the resources and platform to turn your vision into a reality. Join a network of inspiring young leaders dedicated to fostering participatory and inclusive governance. Apply for YSEALI Seeds for the Future 2025 to gain invaluable experience, cultivate your leadership skills, and develop sustainable solutions for pressing issues in your community. Through collaboration and partnership, you can drive meaningful change just like the participants of SKale Up. Don't miss your chance to be a catalyst for positive social transformation. Apply now and be the change you'd like to see in the world!