CHICAGO — The National Youth Commission has chosen John R. Lumapay of Dumaguete City as one of the 28 young Filipinos to represent the country as Youth Ambassador of Goodwill in this year’s Ship for Southeast Asian Youth Program (SSEAYP).
Lumapay successfully passed the series of competitive selection process, and received orientation and training in diplomatic affairs, youth leadership, culture and the arts, among others, so that she may embody the best of the Philippines’ values, culture, and vision during the international program from Oct. 22 until Dec. 14 this year.
Specifically, Lumapay will have the rare opportunity to interact with fellow international youths, and discuss relevant issues affecting the youth in the regional association and the world. She will join courtesy calls with dignitaries, help showcase the country’s traditional culture and arts, and immerse with other cultures.
Now on its 39th year, the SSEAYP is sponsored by the Japanese government, and supported by member-states of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations. On board Japanese liner Fuji Maru, the chosen 28 Philippine delegates, and more than 300 other youth from all over Southeast Asia shall visit six countries: Vietnam, Thailand, Singapore, Indonesia, Brunei, and Japan for an exchange program that will foster diplomacy, cultural understanding, and cooperation among youth leaders in the ASEAN and Japan.
