The Education and Livelihood Skills Alliance (ELSA), a multi-stakeholder partnership that seeks to create and expand learning and employment opportunities for underserved youth in Mindanao, Philippines, has won the Anvil Award for the successful implementation of its In-School Youth Engagement Program. Considered the “Oscar” of public relations practice in the Philippines, the Anvil Awards are presented annually by the Public Relations Society of the Philippines in recognition for outstanding programs and tools that promote the public interest, good values, and genuine service to the community and society.

 

The International Youth Foundation is a founding member of the Alliance, along with the Ayala Foundation, Consuelo Foundation, Petron foundation, Philippine Business for Social Progress (PBSP), and SEAMEO INNOTECH, and serves as its global secretariat.  ELSA's In-School Youth Engagement Program, spearheaded by the Ayala Foundation, develops the leadership potential of high school student leaders in Mindanao through leadership camps, interfaith dialogues, and community project management training.

 

Launched in 2004, ELSA to date has benefited more than 100,000 youth through its programs to improve access to education, enhance the quality of learning, provide alternative education programs for out-of-school youth, support youth leaders, and reintegrate youth back into the workforce.  A community-driven initiative, the Alliance works with local governments, schools boards, private companies, community groups, parents, and training institutes to maximize its impact on the ground.

 

The award was presented February 23, 2007 at the Hotel Intercontinental Manila. Dr. Zeny Domingo, ELSA's Deputy Chief of Party, Mr. Bill Luz, Executive Vice President of Ayala Foundation, and Ms. Sol Delantar, Youth Leadership Development Manager, received the award on behalf of the Alliance.

 

Click here for more information on ELSA