Philippines Hosts YSEALI Bootcamp for Digital Creators

The U.S. Embassy in the Philippines will host a Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative (YSEALI) regional workshop in Manila from May 28 to June 1.

The event will bring together 60 young content creators from across Southeast Asia to help them build connections and sharpen their digital storytelling skills.

Titled “Creators Co-Lab: YSEALI Bootcamp for Digital Creators,” the program will cover artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, brand development, and intellectual property.

Participants will learn from established social media mentors, including journalist Jacque Manabat.

They will also visit the Manila offices of major U.S. tech companies such as Microsoft and Meta.

“We are thrilled to support Southeast Asia’s vibrant community of content creators,” U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson said.

“These digital innovators are revolutionizing how we stay informed and connected.”

“You are not just creating content,” Manabat told participants during the virtual orientation session on April 6.

“You are bridging connections. Your story and creativity matter.”

The participating creators have a combined following of 15 million across various platforms.

Ten of the 60 participants are from the Philippines.

YSEALI is the U.S. government’s flagship program to strengthen leadership and networking among Southeast Asians under 35.

Since its 2013 launch, YSEALI has helped develop youth capabilities in civic engagement, environmental and resource management, education, economic development, and good governance.

Its programs include U.S. cultural and educational exchanges, regional workshops, and seed funding opportunities.

All bootcamp participants will join the U.S. government and YSEALI alumni networks, granting them access to exclusive grants and connections.

The program is implemented by the Out of the Box Media Literacy Initiative with funding from the U.S. Embassy in the Philippines and in partnership with the U.S. Mission to ASEAN.