2016 IYLA Delegate Profiles
Yussef Abubakar Paglas
Philippines
Communications
Ateneo de Davao Law School
“I influence myself with positivity. I'm open-minded and I enjoy having conversations about issues. I care about the welfare of others and I try to do my best to help in any way possible. I'm a believer, not just a dreamer!”
Natalie Gray
United States
Student
University of Washington
“I am from the tree-filled city of Seattle, Washington. A recent graduate of the University of Washington, my career focus lies in sustainable development and environmental sociology. In my free time, I am a visual artist, violinist, and mountain-hiker. I am excited to meet you, share passions, and discuss global grand challenges at the International Young Leaders Assembly. Be sure to say hello!”
Tuvshinbayar Batbayar
Mongolia
Student
National University of Mongolia
“My name is Tuvshinbayar. I study international relations. I like to play basketball and table tennis. I like to learn more about the history and culture of other countries.”
Xiang Un Wan
Singapore
Program Manager
Signapore Management University, Office of Global Learning
“I have a strong interest in cultural experiences and how globalization and technology is changing the way we see and practice our cultures, for better or for worse. I have had the opportunity to travel to many places and am always on the hunt for interesting and exotic food (not necessarily delicious, because taste is subjective). So if you’re interested in knowing more about Singaporean culture or would like to share/trade travelling experiences, don’t be a stranger. Cheers!”
Mariene Lescano
Philippines
Student
University of the Philippines Visayas
“Hi, fellow youth leaders! You can call me Yen. I am very passionate about community interactions, molding leaders and different service-oriented work. Aside from these, I am also into poetry, photography and travel. I have been a student-leader ever since and it is a big honor to be a part of IYLA. Together let us be the change we wish to see in this world. I am looking forward to meeting you all!”
Lauren Beaufils
Australia
Business Marketing Coordinator
Nowchem
“I am 23 years old and live on the South Coast of New South Wales, Australia. After completing a Bachelor of Commerce at the University of Wollongong, I now work at Nowchem. My passion for marketing and communications pushed me to an MBA and Masters of Marketing. My career has led me on a fantastic journey: as a primary organizer of the South Coast Youth Leadership Forum, a Global Youth Ambassador mentor in Thailand, and receiving an award at the Illawarra Women in Business Awards. In my spare time I enjoy being up in the sky as a student pilot and learning mandarin (Chinese).”
Pick Ching Fong
Malaysia
Program Director
GPF Malaysia
“I love music, nature and things that I have emotional connection with because they make me smile.”
Emil Benjamin Tapnio
Philippines
Program Director
Philippine Development Foundation
“I’ve always been involved in the development sector: education, human rights, transformational leadership, and much more. It’s easier to effect change when personal advocacy and work are woven together. This is evident in my jobs and volunteer work. Exposure to different cultures enriches the approach that I, as a development manager, can learn and bring back to the Philippines. I’m excited to share best practices and even challenges that I encountered in the Philippines. I'm a development worker, art lover, bibliophile, musicphile, runner, yogi, and amateur photographer.”
Suyeon Bae
South Korea
Student
University of Incheon
“I am friendly to everyone and I enjoy sharing thoughts with people.”
Khalid Omer
Khan Sherwani
Pakistan
Student
Institute of Business Admin. Karachi
“I’m a 21 year-old guy who believes that having meaningful conversations is the first step towards solving any problem. I'm open-minded and curious, love to question my own knowledge, and always ready to learn and experience something new and exciting. I like watching good films no matter what language they're in, watching TV shows and reading books. I'm looking forward to having an experience of a lifetime with you all.”
Sayuri Rimal
Australia
Student
Macquarie University
“Hi, I’m Sayuri. I live in Sydney, Australia. My opinions change everyday; my hobbies are fickle. There is one truth, however, that remains unyielding. It is the foundation for every action I take in my time here: Always speak up. Speak up for injustices and the suffering of others. Speak up for issues that require attention, kindness and compassion. It is a collective responsibility to defend the rights of others. So let’s do it together.”
Kazuhiro Handa
Japan
Secretary General
GPF Japan
“Hi, I’m Sayuri. I live in Sydney, Australia. My opinions change everyday; my hobbies are fickle. There is one truth, however, that remains unyielding. It is the foundation for every action I take in my time here: Always speak up. Speak up for injustices and the suffering of others. Speak up for issues that require attention, kindness and compassion. It is a collective responsibility to defend the rights of others. So let’s do it together.”
Alexis Ercolino
United States
Student
University of Florida
“My name is Alexis and I am a double major in Economics and International Studies at the University of Florida. I am passionate about organizations and efforts that aim towards improving people's lives and I want to learn to empower myself and be a better leader so that I can succeed in helping others!”
Muiu Nguli Ngura
Kenya
Registration Associate
UNHCR
“I’m a son of Kenya striving to bring about positive change within my community and the world. I am 32, a husband, and a father to 2 wonderful children. I’ve worked 10 years with UNHCR: Kenya, Egypt and Greece: current 2016 UNHCR Innovation fellow. Passionate about finding solutions for refugees and improving the lives of youth in Kenya, I believe that corruption is directly related to all problems facing Kenyans and I remain forever hopeful that this deeply entrenched vice can be ended through moral and innovative leadership.”
Maria Martinez
Paraguay
Operations Specialist
United Nations: SIGOB Project
“I like to interact with people from other cultures, in order to learn from them as well as so they can learn from me. I think that the changes we would like to see in our societies starts with us; with what we do in every aspect of our daily lives, starting with the small things. I have 5-years of experience in working at the US Embassy Asuncion and 1 year and a half at the SIGOB Project from UNDP.”
Wensi Lim
Singapore
Manager
Office of Global Learning: Singapore Management University
“I specialize in developing social integration programs and policies for my organization and enhancing leadership and events-planning skills of undergraduate student leaders. As a certified Lego Serious Play facilitator, I help teams improve their innovation and business performance and look forward to sharing this method with more people. I hold a Masters in Arts Public Policy and have an interest in immigration and population issues. I enjoy meeting people from different cultural backgrounds and gaining a wider perspective this way.”
Abdul Kadir Shah
Malaysia
President
National Youth Islamic Dakwah Foundation
“I'm looking forward to meeting interesting people with amazing background to discuss global issues and come out with a better solution. I hope that with this unity we will change our society into a better life and a peaceful environment.”
Teresa Wang
United States
Student
New York University
“In the 19 years that I have lived in America, I experienced numerous instances of racism and stereotypes. Because of my background, I’ve grown to have an interest in international affairs and help others who are in similar situations adjust better to their surroundings. I hope to eventually major in East Asian Studies, International Affairs, and be admitted to a program at my school called Social and Cultural Analysis with an interest in East Asia. I am currently involved with a club at my school called F4NK, which stands for Freedoms 4 North Korea.”
Seolhee Lee
South Korea
Student
MeongJi University Seoul
“I was involved in last year's IYLA in Bangkok, Thailand. It was a great time to meet friends of different nationalities. That time had been a very good experience for me. This made me want to be a person of commitment and action. I hope through this IYLA I can inspire someone.”
Peony Kong
Canada
MARCOMM Team Leader
Mount Royal
“Hello everyone! Nice to meet all of you. I am so thrilled to be a part of IYLA this year because it is a very interesting conference. I hope to learn and gain as many perspectives from people around the world. I am a Communications student and have interests towards economics, politics, social entrepreneurship, and anything that can stimulate my mind. So feel free to hit me up a conversation! I promise that I don't bite.”
Kevin Gamad
Philippines
Student
University of Santo Tomas
“I am a senior AB Legal Management student of the Faculty of Arts and Letters at the University of Santo Tomas. I’m currently writing a thesis about the current income taxation law in the Philippines, through which I aim to pursue tax reforms towards a simpler, more equitable and more efficient tax system that would help Filipinos’ income cope with the needs of their families. As a student leader, academic achiever, and a mental health advocate, I aspire to become a lawyer and eventually, a justice of the Supreme Court.”
Robie Reyes
Philippines
CEO
RG Capitol
“As a young CEO of RG Capital working with young Filipino entrepreneurs, I have a burning desire to serve my countrymen and hope for better future. I have a strong determination to teach young and aspiring entrepreneurs what it means to be successful through dedication, hard work, persistence, and perseverance.”
Emily Savage
Australia
Student
Macquarie University
“My name is Emily and I am a student currently studying for a Bachelors of Commerce, majoring in Marketing and International Business. I’m about to start a semester of exchange at the University of Mississippi directly after IYLA and I am very excited to meet lots of new people.”
Jasmine Chung
India
Student
Queensborough Community College
“I was born and raised in India but as my surname suggests, I'm a descendant of a Chinese family. I am currently in college pursuing my Associate's degree in Criminal Justice. I am independent and determined. Hence, after completing my education in the field of Criminal Justice, I wanted to make my life more meaningful and move forward with a purpose to serve the community and the people. I hope to learn well and put my talent of being a strong leader to use by helping to build a better nation and serve mankind.”
Jamie Villamor
Philippines
Executive Vice President
Villamor College of Business and Arts
“I am passionate about educating and mentoring the next generation. I also love taking photos, reading books, and travelling the rest of the world.”
Bhola Prasad Gautam
Nepal
Information Officer
Office of District Development, Dhading
“I am from Nepal, where a devastating earthquake happened in 2015 and took about 9,000 lives. As a local development worker, I joined in a massive rescue operation in my working district and helped to save many lives of earthquake victims. In our nation’s re-building process, I am still working through my office: DDC Dhading. My interest and continuous involvement in humanitarian actions inspired me as a young leader in the area and today I am very thankful to IYLA for providing this opportunity to participate, learn and share my skills and experiences with rest of the world.”
Anna Lorraine Uy
Philippines
Student
Ateneo de Manila University
“I am a Masters student of Computer Science in Ateneo de Manila University. My field of interest is in educational technology and I’m currently doing research in mobile learning."
Ashok Neupane
Nepal
CEO
Talk Holdings
“I am passionate about conceptualizing; developing and delivering products that present an innovative approach to the market. I have eight years experience in a B2B environment based in Nepal and India in launching new products. I have in- depth telecom technology expertise including equipment, products and services, with substantial experience in business development, initiating new sales and identifying market opportunities. I am known to be an active social facilitator and have been involved in various social initiatives organized locally.”
Erdenebulgan Ochirbat
Mongolia
Deputy Chair
Network of Mongolian Volunteer Organizations
“My friends call me Bulgaa. I have more than 15 years’ experience working in non-profit and the social sector promoting volunteerism, community driven development models, and social entrepreneurship; also worked in various business development roles in manufacturing, construction, private investment, business consulting, and executive search. I am open-minded relentless learner exposed to an international culture.”
Battulga Telmen
Mongolia
Public Relations
Mongolian Youth Association
“I like to play basketball, handball and chess. I play as team leader of the University team. We won in 2014 in handball: silver medal at the national championship. I am a doctor by profession. Now I am leading public relations and project manager of the Mongolian Youth Association Humanitarian of the Standing Committee.”
Uyanga Ochirbat
Mongolia
Production Manager
Royal Ocean LLC
“I have studied Management Information System and am a Certified International Teacher of Chinese Language. As a Manager of Foreign Trade, I am currently working as a production manager in a private company, in charge of China Factory. We are manufacturing energy efficient clean stoves to reduce air pollution in Mongolia. As a social project, I am currently helping those who are living below living standard to start a bee farm. I believe this project can contribute to their livelihood. Bee products are good for health and are a vital to the environment.”
Dong Chan Kim
South Korea
Manager
GPY Korea
“I am a program manager for Global Peace Youth in Korea.”
Vincente Homer Revil
Philippines
Governor
Province of Masbate
“I consider myself a passionate leader wanting to help change the world to be a better place for this generation and the next. I always take every opportunity for learning as a chance to improve my knowledge and skill so I can be equipped to lead my people as well. I am a lawyer by profession and always feel blessed with the chance to help, especially the underprivileged who need legal services. I was privileged to receive a Fulbright scholarship by the US State Department in 2010 for the International Visitors Leadership Program. I became the Governor of the Province of Masbate so I’m able to apply my learning for the welfare of our people.”
Jeong Hyun Eom
South Korea
Student
Keimyung University
“I support activities about reunification to teach elementary, middle, and high school students.”
Ram Rohan Panta
Nepal
President
GPF Nepal
“I am President of Global Peace Foundation Nepal; building partnerships and implementing values-based approaches to development and peace. I am a social, youth, environment, and tech activist. I play an active leadership role in NGOs working with children's education, youth rights, and peace building. I am also a member of the Institute of Engineering and Technology.”
Beatrice Mendoza
Philippines
President
Project Teach4Play AIESEC
“I am a senior in the University of Santo Tomas taking Education. It has and will always be my dream to be able to create an impact through teaching and serving the youth. I am part of AIESEC Philippines and UNICEF, which has given me an opportunity to create projects not just for our university but to our country as well. I like going on adventures, travelling and hiking. When teaching I'd like to think that I could bring the world to the children through the stories, the history and the life beyond the nature, the tourist spots and the hidden gems of each beautiful country."
Kaye Revil
Philippines
Vice Governor
Province of Masbate
“I am committed to life-long learning, believe in the power of networking for the common good. I am persistent about my job as Vice Governor of my province and look forward to helping it be peaceful and progressive with better quality of life for our people.”
Shinichiro Fukazawa
Japan
Director
Tori Four Co. LTD
“My name is Shinichiro Fukazawa. I went to the judo private supplementary school of Tokai University management from 5 years old to 15 years old. There was a Christian legacy, which said:
‘I for Japan;
Japan for the World;
The World for Christ;
And All for God.’
- Kanzou Uchimura”
Elise Webb
Australia
Student
Macquarie University
“I am currently in my first year of university, studying a double degree of Psychology and Human Sciences. I am super friendly and I love talking to new people. I work part time as a swimming instructor and a nanny. In my spare time I enjoy cooking, exercising, and hanging out with friends.”
Leonard Faustino
Philippines
President
GPY Philippines
“I am a young leader and an advocate in the realization of the goals of the society. I radiate my servitude and aspiration to promote nationalism with dedication and commitment. I was the team captain of the Philippine team that won the best web magazine award for 2004 and 2006 in South East Asia sponsored by the South East Asian Ministry of Education. Awarded as most outstanding student of the Young Men Christian Association. Currently I am president of Global Peace Youth Philippines and Youth Chair of the Asia Pacific Peace and Development Service Alliance.”
Taimanda Shalhona
Nigeria
Coordinator
Leadership Institute
“I serve as the Coordinator of Leadership Institute, which is a premier institution and the first of its kind, for the training of model leaders in all walks of life to lead Africa and the World to its desired development. The institute works to create leaders who can take advantage of their many assets and form them into blessings to improve the quality of life of people.
Adriana Calderon
United States
Student
King’s College London
“I am from Bogotá Colombia, currently doing a MSc in Leadership and Development at King's College London in London, UK. I have been working in development for some years now and love the idea of contributing to world development, especially in Latin America and my home country.”
Emil Prenette Ode Ayuk
Cameroon
Nurse
NEGDRUGS and clinical center Association yaounde
“I am a Cameroonian aged 29years. I did nursing in the university of Buea and obtained a bachelor's degree in nursing science.I have being working as a nusrse for 2 years 6months now. Iam very passionate with the job i do . Iam a Christian and love God..”
Gabriel Ashu-Arrey
Cameroon
CEO/Founder
Global Entrepreneurship Corps
"I am an Entrepreneur and Ashoka Scholar 2016, motivational speaker and Youth leader whose vision is to restore the dignity of the poor. I embark on developing sustainable solutions for appropriate global development and peace. Having a total of 5years of socio behavioral and socio economic research experience with the Centers for Disease Control and prevention and the First Bank group, 8years business development experience with several incubators and start-ups, as well his personal experience with a challenging socio political and Socio economic environment, opens my mind to the compelling needs and urgency to promote Entrepreneurship for Wealth Creation and for Peace."
Azwan Omar
Malaysia
Vice Chair
Malaysian Youth Parliment
“I am the Vice Chairperson of International Relations and Diplomacy of the Malaysian Youth Parliament. I am also a member of 'Successor Generation Initiative' (SGI) Board of Advisor to Her Excellency, the British High Commissioner to Malaysia. I am the Advisor to the Member of Parliament for Johor Bahru, who is Chairman of Barisan Nasional Backbencher Council (BNBBC). I have a degree in Electrical Power Engineering, an MBA (Corporate Finance), an Advance Diploma in Management Accounting, and also a certificate of Islamic Capital Market.”
John Thomas
United States
Student
Florida State University
“I want to open the world’s ears to problems by touching upon them in a medium I enjoy: film.”
Madison Sharp
United States
Student
Bard College
“I am a Human Rights major with a concentration in Latin American & Iberian studies because I am passionate about improving human rights specifically in the Americas. I also love music and theater, travel, and leaning about new cultures. I am very open-minded and love to meet new people and learn new things from people of different cultures.”
Daniela Lozano
United States
Student
University of Florida
“My interests include: National Security & Intelligence, International Development, and Peace and Conflict Management.”
Maria Bedolla
United States
Student
University of the Incarnate Word
“My interests are Global Human Rights, Intelligence & National Security, and NGO's & Global Politics.”
Amanda McGuire
United States
Student
George Washington University
“My interests include Russian History and Culture, European Affairs, and Girl Scouts.”
Harper Hutchins
United States
Student
Wheelock College
“I’m interested in Education Policy, Politics, and Global Marketing. I will be taking a semester off next fall to explore France and French Culture.”
Oloruntobi Dare
Nigeria
Student
Syracuse University
“I’m working towards a Masters in Global Health. I see myself working and making a difference in the health field in Africa.”
Mohak Bhatt
United States
Student
University of Baltimore
“My interests include Photography, Writing, and Cinematography.”
Christina Johnson
United States
Student
Pepperdine University
“I am interested in Intercultural Communications, International Affairs, and Latin American Studies. In the future, I see myself as a U.S. Ambassador to a Latin American country.”