This month's member of the month is Ms. Marbie Anne Ascaño from the Philippines, current secretary of the organization. She has long been engaged with the ATO since 2010 through its virtual programs and pre-pandemic volunteering activities. As part of our feature, we asked her the following questions regarding her outlook about the organization. 1. Why did you join the ATO? I still can remember the first time I joined the organization back in 2010 when I was in 2nd year of high school and I was invited by the group to join its activities. I can see how dedicated they are in pursuing the organization’s goals and advocacies. From there, I observed their persistence and commitment made everything possible. I want to be a part of it and witness how it will grow and develop into a successful youth platform. I believe it is also a community where like-minded individuals from all over the world can meet and discuss things that could be done if we all work and be harmonious in a common goal, together. 2. What social advocacies are you currently or do you plan to pursue? Youth Empowerment has always been my passion. Ever since I was young, my dream is to become a youth leader, I want to be a part of every young people’s life and make changes. I want to know their story, relate to them, and inspire them. I want them to realize to not waste any opportunities and know their importance as youth. I have been involved in many youth organizations and it is very fulfilling to touch someone’s life and help them in becoming the best version of themselves. I believe that ATO is one of the great platforms that will help me pursue the social advocacies that I am passionate about. Aside from its objectives, all of its members are smart and talented. I am sure that they are all willing to share and contribute to its success. The members are not only from the Philippines but also from around the globe that is why I am not afraid that my platform and advocacy won’t be heard because I believe, that I’ve got the best and the loudest voice. 3. What is the biggest change or contribution the organization has done to you as an individual? As a person, I have so many insecurities, and I always have that mindset of “I don’t think I can do this.”, this mindset always holds me back in doing some things because I am really afraid of disappointing the people around me.
The organization helped me heal and forget my self-doubts. The officers and the members are all nice and very understanding, they are willing to help you succeed in what you are doing, no matter how hard it is. Your mistakes will make you realize to do not only better things but the best. The organization does not only focus on social issues but also tries its best to be flexible and take into account the mental health of its members in the middle of an extraordinary time. The gem of the organization is its people: the board, the officials, the members, and the volunteers. Each one of them brings learnings and lessons. Without them, there will be no meaningful initiatives or efforts. People behind this organization are not just simply “orgmates”, I consider them as my friends and family.
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