Celebrating International Youth Day 2021 with FactSet in the Philippines

The pandemic has been hard on everyone and getting used to a new way of living comes with its challenges. Despite the huge impacts that COVID-19 has had, our classes have continued through online platforms. The transition to online learning has been managed well by schools and universities, and they’ve really helped students cope with the new lesson format.

I am thankful that there are people who continuously support me with my studies. But I have also faced challenges. At times I have lost interest and motivation, which affected my mental health. During the days I felt good but at the end of the day I would find myself crying without knowing why. Sometimes I struggled to cope with school and questioned my worth and my ability to do the best that I can. Mental health issues should never be ignored, and people should always get the help that they need. It took me a long time, but eventually I figured out how to cope with my own mental health issues and learned to always look for the brighter days ahead. I think of my three siblings and remind myself that I want to be a role model to them and all the children that work with SOS Children’s Villages.

Although online classes are continuing, there are still issues that we must overcome. Internet connection, or lack of it, is one of the biggest challenges to our learning. The SOS partnership with FactSet has been so helpful in overcoming the connectivity issues. They have provided stable and fast internet connection, allowing us to complete our schoolwork and lessons.

With this new internet connection, I am very much looking forward to the launch of YouthCan! Even more young people will now be able to take part in the employability program. Workshops and work experience will give young people in the Philippines a chance to develop skills and confidence to help them get decent work in the future.