BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN – Registration is now open for the upcoming Brunei Young Leaders Convention (BYLC) 2019 which will take place at the International Convention Centre from August 6 to August 8.

Following the success of the first convention last year, organisers Perspective Insan Academy, Al-Huffaz Management and Generasi Berkarih want to reach out to youths and organisations interested in collaborating for the upcoming event.

BYLC 2019 is a platform for local youth to work together to initiate projects and activities that can contribute to the development their communities and the nation as a whole.

Legislative Council member Iswandy Ahmad, who is the convention chairperson, said organisers have invited new mentors as well as some returning speakers, hoping it will offer participants fresh perspectives.

“We are also inviting several government agencies to engage with the youth and bring them aboard their projects like the Neighborhood Watch and Mosque Affairs Department,” he said during a press conference on Wednesday.

The collaboration with government agencies is part of a whole-of-nation approach to mobilise youths, he added.

YB Iswandy said they are looking into organisations that are interested in funding youth-led projects and welcome any parties that may want to contribute.

Chairperson of the Brunei Young Leaders Convention, YB Iswandy Ahmad (2L), speaks to media during a press conference on May 15, 2019. Photo: Hazimul Wa’ie/The Scoop

During the three-day event, there will be leadership sessions with BYLC alumni and 45 mentors who have been selected for their contributions to the fields of entrepreneurship, education, health and social affairs.

The founders of Firdaus Wear and the Cureheart Organisation, who are alumni of BYLC 2018, will return to the convention this year to share their experiences.

Organisers said BYLC will be a place where youth can network with mentors and also collaborate with peers who share the same interests and passions.

The conference is aimed at youths from student councils, NGOs, graduates and young professionals who have keen interest in personal and community development and are looking into gaining practical skills in project management.

Last year, BYLC received more than 200 applications, with alumni establishing three new companies and two organisations. According to organisers, a total of eight projects were successfully initiated after the convention with funding from various agencies.

Applications are open to youth aged 18 to 40. Successful applicants will be required to pay a $150 fee, although scholarships are available. Applications close on July 13.