Ozamiz City, Misamis Occidental – A new project led by young people in Ozamiz is bringing hope and support to local communities. Called BRAVE (Building Resilient and Aware Voices for Empowerment), this year-long program is focused on helping youth become leaders in health, climate action, and community resilience.
The BRAVE Project is run by Jhpiego Philippines, a health and development organization, with support from Olivia Rodrigo’s Fund 4 Good—an international effort to help women and girls access better health and education.
The project officially launched at Ozamiz City National High School and will partner with ten public schools in the city to create safe, youth-friendly spaces where students can learn, share, and take action.
Why BRAVE Matters to the Community
The BRAVE Project focuses on three key areas:
- Health and Well-being: Helping young people understand their bodies and rights, and access information and counseling through teen centers in schools.
- Mental Health Support: Offering workshops and peer support so students can handle stress and challenges in a healthy way.
- Climate Awareness: Teaching students how to care for the environment and take action against climate change through school campaigns and activities.
For working families, this means more support for their children’s health, safety, and leadership potential—both in school and in the community.
“We are not just teaching students—we are building leaders,” said Arlene Via from the Department of Education in Ozamiz. “Through BRAVE, we’re giving young people the tools to take care of themselves and help others.”
Olivia Rodrigo’s Role
Olivia Rodrigo, a world-famous Filipino-American singer known for her songs “Drivers License,” “SOUR,” and “GUTS,” visited the Philippines in 2024 during her concert tour. She donated proceeds from her concert to Jhpiego through her Fund 4 Good, helping make BRAVE possible.
Her donation is now supporting real programs in Ozamiz—proof that even global stars can help create positive change at the local level.
Community Support and Partnership
BRAVE is working closely with local partners, including:
- DepEd (Department of Education)
- CPD (Commission on Population and Development)
- DOH (Department of Health)
- Ozamiz City Government
The project officially launched with a community pledge called the “I Am BRAVE” Call to Action, where students, teachers, and local leaders promised to support the goals of the project. A commitment signing followed, showing strong collaboration from all sides.
To reach more people, Jhpiego Philippines also launched its official Facebook page, where the public can follow updates and stories from the project.
A New Generation of Leaders
“BRAVE started as a dream. Now, it’s a real project, helping real young people,” said Dr. Ingrid R. Magnata, Jhpiego Philippines Country Program Manager. “With the help of our partners and the support of Olivia Rodrigo, we’re showing that youth can lead and bring positive change.”
Students also shared their excitement and pride.
“I feel proud to be part of BRAVE,” said John Stephen Pranciliso, a student from Ozamiz City National High School. “We’re learning how to take care of our health, help the environment, and support each other. It shows that even at our age, we can make a difference.”
As the BRAVE Project moves forward, it promises to bring lasting impact not only to students, but to families and communities as a whole.
“Together, we are building stronger, safer, and more caring communities,” added Dr. Magnata.| – Kabayannews.net
