by Thena Posysenthong, Linking, Learning, and Amplifier Officer, Voice in Laos & Kayla Lapiz, Voice Communications Officer

This blog is a joint reflection from co-authors who attended the Voice Philippines Campfire, poised as the final Linking & Learning and close out event of Voice in The Philippines. It is also a part of a series of reflection blogs coming from Voice folks attending one another’s close out events, sharing each other’s celebrations of their Voice journeys.

A campfire brings thoughts of shared warmth, stories and togetherness. The Voice Philippines Campfire was exactly those three thoughts. As the final linking and learning event and the country’s close out event for Voice, the togetherness of grantee partners, folks from Voice and external stakeholders brought their amazing, collective journey into one space. We had an amazing experience joining this event in the Philippines, where we saw the unity of grantee partners and rightsholders. It was an honor to see them come together, sharing their stories and experiences for the past eight years.

Through following their narratives, it was evident that this Campfire started with lit sparkles— different, individual stories that along the way weaved amongst each other. And what a ride it was to hear their collective journey through various platforms! There was the Yakap-Pakay (Embrace-Purpose) Art Exhibition which was co-created by grantee partners and curated by local artists. The art exhibition really made a mark for us, being able to convey stories and feelings through creative interpretations and symbolism.

For example, there was an artwork entitled “Aray!” which is “Ouch!” in English. This piece tries to convey the feeling of pain and discomfort upon witnessing injustices. The Diversity Tree, another piece, reflects the growth of a community that embraces diverse, equal identities. Another that made a mark is a collection of Philippine money/bills but with indigenous human rights defenders placed as the main images, which we translate as unspoken heroes who are left to fend for their selves.

To see the full exhibit, YGoal, Inc. translated it into a digital exhibit. How cool? Take a tour here.

Another very interesting part of the Campfire was the Amplifyathon challenge where rightsholder groups were paired with young journalists to work on a communication material reflecting the rightsholders voices, challenges, successes, among others. It was a great idea to not only amplify stories externally, but to engage young journalists in conversations that can widen their perspectives and expose them to various advocacies toward inclusion.

To see the Amplifyathon outputs, please check this awesome dashboard YGoal, Inc. created, which also summarises the day-to-day of the whole Campfire!

Apart from the two main activities, social conversations were also done led by rightsholders, as well as a marketplace where knowledge, material, and food products of grantee partners were showcased. Last but definitely not the least is the Incluciety card game made specifically as part of the Linking & Learning process in Voice Philippines. This card game aims to spark conversations on inclusion in a fun and engaging way, designed for both competitive and cooperative game plays.

The Campfire, more than an open space to reunite, express creativity and listen to each other’s stories, was a space to just be. To be present and alive, knowing that no matter who you are as an individual, there is a community that is ready to hold space with you. It was not a mere close out event of Voice as a programme, but an envisioning of how the community of Voice grantee partners, called Inclusion Pilipinas, may carry on and see more unlit sparks waiting to be discovered.

Lastly, we hope you enjoy this video summary of the whole Campfire, made with love and full of hope!