Held from July 20 to 23, 2025, the workshop brought together 100 youth volunteers and 10 civil society organizations (CSOs) and social enterprises (SEs) from across Southeast Asia to collaborate, build capacity, and advance community impact in the region.
Ranging in age from 19 to 35 and representing all 10 ASEAN member states, the youth participants are paired with civil society organizations (CSOs) and social enterprises (SEs) to co-develop 10 community-based projects. These initiatives focus on community building, arts and culture, environmental sustainability, and education.
Each project receives up to USD 25,000 in funding and will be implemented across six countries: Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand, and Viet Nam.
In his opening remarks, Tan Sri Dato' Sri Ir. Zamzamzairani Mohd Isa, chair of Maybank Group and Maybank Foundation said “Maybank through the eYAA programme in collaboration with ASEAN Foundation, remains steadfast to drive social empowerment by enabling young changemakers to create real impact, foster unity across cultures and build a more inclusive and resilient ASEAN community.”
“We firmly believe that when given the right tools to succeed, our youth can be a constructive force for development. The power of youth lies not only in doing something great but also in uncovering their full potential and courage, enabling them to achieve meaningful things for the future,” Tan Sri Zamzamzairani added.
Philippine projects
As part of Cohort 5, youth volunteers will support the “Paaralang Bukas Kalikasan” project by Curma Group Inc. in La Union, and the “Project Digital Horizon” by Espoir School of Life Inc. in Siargao Island.
“Paaralang Bukas Kalikasan” by Curma Group Inc. in La Union fosters marine conservation through environmental education in schools and communities, directly reaching over 1,000 individuals and inspiring 50 youth ambassadors.
“Project Digital Horizon” by Espoir School of Life Inc. brings solar-powered e-Libraries to Siargao, benefiting 300 learners, 20 teachers, and over 900 community members, enhancing education through digital and renewable solutions.
A platform for youth-led development
“We are incredibly excited to continue this journey with Maybank Foundation,” said Dr. Piti Srisangnam, executive director of the ASEAN Foundation.
“This programme reminds us that youth are not just future leaders—they are leading change today. Through eYAA, we are taking real steps toward achieving the ASEAN Community Vision 2045—a region where youth are at the centre of building a more inclusive, innovative, and resilient Southeast Asia.”
Cohort 5 volunteers will live and work in local communities for two weeks, co-creating solutions and forging grassroots connections that bolster ASEAN solidarity. Since 2018, eYAA has supported 382 youth, launched 40 projects, and impacted over 89,000 people.
The program aligns with the ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community Blueprint 2025 and Maybank’s goal to improve the lives of two million ASEAN households by 2025, reinforcing youth as key agents of inclusive growth and regional cooperation. —Ramon C. Nocon
