From 14–19 November 2025, Mr. Areef Tohtayong, a 4th-year student from the School of Social Innovation, joined the ASEAN School of Youth Leadership (YouLead 2025) as one of the Thai youth representatives, along with young leaders from across the region.
Held under the theme “Building Future Leaders for ASEAN,” the programme, initiated by the Higher Education Leadership Academy (AKEPT), Ministry of Higher Education, Malaysia, aimed to nurture outstanding youth delegates from ASEAN countries. It focused on fostering leadership capacity, cross-cultural collaboration, and a shared vision for regional development, with a strong emphasis on DEIB (diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging).
Participants gained essential skills and insights from hands-on training, workshops, and lectures led by invited scholars, policy makers, and think tanks from across the region. Furthermore, through knowledge sharing and the exchange of best practices among the young leaders, Mr. Areef Tohtayong established a strong foundation for leadership growth and built a valuable network of changemakers.
Areef reflected on his experience:
“One of my most valuable learning experiences in this programme was the opportunity to truly connect with friends from across ASEAN and begin seeing myself as an ASEAN youth leader… This environment strengthened my sense of regional identity and inspired me to contribute more actively as a responsible youth in ASEAN rather than just a youth of my own nation.”
Mae Fah Luang University is determined to cultivate global citizenship in its students through education, cross-cultural engagement, and international collaboration. The University is proud to celebrate Mr. Areef Tohtayong’s achievement and his ongoing contribution as a youth leader representing Thailand and MFU at the regional level.
