The inaugural YouLeaD-Australia 2024, held from August 24-31, 2024, concluded with resounding success, showcasing the profound impact of cross-cultural exchange and youth leadership. The Filipino-Australian delegation, consisting of nine participants from Sydney, Australia, was led by reigning Miss Philippines-Australia 2023, Bella Dela Cruz.

This groundbreaking initiative, the first of its kind in collaboration with Filipino-Australians, aligns seamlessly with the mission of the Youth Leaders in the Diaspora (YouLeaD) program under the Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO). The program’s objective is to reconnect young Filipinos abroad with their heritage, foster understanding of Filipino culture, and immerse them in the daily life of local communities.

The delegation’s journey commenced with a warm welcome and dinner at the renowned Singing Cooks and Waiters, where they enjoyed a delightful array of Filipino dishes. The subsequent days were filled with enriching experiences as the group explored Manila’s modern attractions, including the Mind Museum, Bonifacio Global City, and Mall of Asia. Their exploration also took them to Binondo, Manila’s historic Chinatown.

A highlight of their trip was the challenging yet rewarding hike to Tangadan Falls in La Union. The trek, though arduous, led to the breathtaking beauty of the falls and a deeper appreciation of the natural wonders of the Philippines. La Union also offered the group a chance to visit popular sites such as the “Little Boracay” beach, Ma-Cho Temple, Bato De Luna, the Man-Made Forest, Baluarte Watchtower, and Bahay na Bato, among others.

Upon their return to Manila, the group’s itinerary included visits to the National Museum, Malacañan Palace Museum, and several partner orphanages, including Home for the Angels and Hospicio De San Jose. These visits allowed the delegation to engage with local communities and witness the efforts being made to support underprivileged youth.

Bella Dela Cruz, who played a pivotal role in coordinating and communicating with the CFO for this event, expressed her hopes that this successful implementation will pave the way for future YouLeaD programs involving Filipino-Australian youth.

The success of YouLeaD-Australia 2024 not only highlights the strong cultural ties between the Philippines and Australia but also sets a precedent for future international youth exchange programs. The CFO looks forward to building on this momentum to further strengthen the bonds among young Filipinos globally.