Growing up in a family of seven, I witnessed firsthand the realities of hardship. My parents worked tirelessly to stretch every resource just to ensure we had food on the table and could go to school. Those early struggles shaped my character and planted a deep desire in me to dream bigger—not just for myself, but for others. I made a promise to give back in whatever way I could.

Volunteering as an SK Youth Councilor became the path through which I fulfilled that promise. It tested my faith, patience, and perseverance, but more importantly, it reminded me how fortunate I am to be in a position to share my knowledge and skills with others. Inspiring young people to pursue their dreams, even in the face of adversity, gave my journey a deeper sense of purpose.

One of the most meaningful moments for me was organizing simple storytelling activities for children. It taught me that kindness and generosity aren't measured by grand gestures—they’re reflected in the willingness to show up, to listen, and to share what you have. Volunteering not only enriched my life—it shaped who I am today: someone committed to serving others and creating spaces where people, especially the youth, can believe in their potential.

Volunteering with the Guilan Environmental Women and Youth Association (2014–2015) transformed my perspective on social impact. Organizing environmental campaigns in Rasht, Iran, I collaborated with diverse communities to promote sustainability, navigating cultural and gender-related challenges. This experience inspired my book Virtual Social Networks and Environmental Movements (2018), linking digital platforms to activism. It strengthened my leadership and commitment to amplifying marginalized voices, shaping my research on digital activism and social media’s societal role. Volunteering fueled my dedication to inclusive change, influencing my academic and teaching career.

Volunteering has been a transformative part of my personal and professional journey. Through my work with Youth First Initiative Philippines Inc. and related projects, volunteering has deepened my understanding of community needs and the power of collective action. It has taught me humility, empathy, and resilience, qualities essential for effective leadership and social change.

Being actively involved in grassroots initiatives has allowed me to connect with diverse groups, especially marginalized youth, whose stories inspire me to keep pushing for inclusive and responsible development. Volunteering has also sharpened my skills in project management, communication, and advocacy, preparing me to lead impactful programs that address mental health, digital literacy, and sustainable innovation.

Most importantly, volunteering has reinforced my belief that change starts with service by giving time, energy, and heart to causes bigger than myself. It fuels my passion to empower others, especially young people, to become agents of positive transformation in their communities. This journey continues to shape my purpose to build equitable spaces where youth can thrive, lead, and create lasting impact.

Volunteering has transformed my sense of purpose and leadership. As a UNCF Ambassador at Tuskegee University, I advocate for scholarships and guide students through the application process—many of whom are first-generation college students like myself. I also volunteer to lead campus tours for prospective students and high schoolers, helping them see themselves in spaces they once thought were out of reach.

Beyond campus, I’ve volunteered with breast cancer awareness marches alongside my family, and contributed to youth education initiatives in my community. These experiences deepened my commitment to equity, and taught me that even small actions—like helping someone fill out a scholarship or explaining a college application—can change the course of someone’s life.

Volunteering gave me more than just community hours; it gave me a voice. It shaped how I lead, how I serve, and why I believe young people can be catalysts for social change. It’s a journey I plan to continue—using tech, education, and empathy as tools to create a more just future.

Volunteering for a cause, my consistent commitment to animal welfare from the early years of my life, has essentially made my life more complete and influenced my personal life in deep ways that connected me to the needs of our community in Iloilo City on a stronger level. My core passion is inherently tied to service, which propels me not only as a leader but also as a committed change advocate.

My journey started at age 17 with an animal organization and remains the focal point of my life as I approach 22. This extended commitment has given me priceless lessons and a profound sense of purpose. Their wagging tails and "lovely smiles" which accompany their unwavering, unselfish love and wordless thanks give me constant energy, particularly during the unavoidable stresses of being an animal advocate within our own region. Their cause for which I battle with dedication stems from that shared interaction and strengthens my purpose.

Working in a non-profit setting has also given me essential real-world experience. I have learned the importance of strategic planning and resourcefulness in order to make the organization sustainable. This has developed self-confidence and a positive attitude, vital for constructing the networks necessary in order to gain support from within our Ilonggo community.

Getting named as a young advocate has also fostered greater passion. I realize the potential of my voice and am motivated by the fact that my commitment can influence others and make a real difference to animals in Iloilo City and other places. This experience has not only made me a better giver but has also given me leadership skills, toughness, and a deep sense of purpose that have transformed me into a more empathetic and action-oriented individual deeply committed to the well-being of our community, both human and animal.