News Blog by EJ Cuaresma

When viewers turn on the television, listen to the radio or read a newspaper, they are bombarded with news of crime, corruption and violence from around the world. Poverty is often shown by an image of a child or the lack of resources in a suffering country. However, if people, particularly young adults, live according to God’s plan, share His love and resources, they are able to restore the dignity of the poor and challenge themselves to respond to the call for social justice. 

Since its inception in 2004, GK Youth Australia, formerly known as Young ANCOP, continue to believe in its mission statement and motto “Live. Share. Restore.” GK Youth is a collective of young individuals who have used their experiences and awareness to devote their time, effort and resources in doing small things to make a big difference. Creativity, self discipline, transformation and team work are all part of the journey in GK Youth.

There have been numerous challenges and achievements that GK Youth Australia has encountered over the years. Several programs and projects such as GK Ambassador, GK1Day, GK1MB, City2Surf, GK Summit and the GK Concerts have all been opportunities for the youth to develop and appreciate the passion in serving the less fortunate. In particular, GK Youth Australia has now sent over 250 GK Youth Great Adventure Tour (GKY GAT) participants to the Philippines, Cambodia and Papua New Guinea; not including the annual CFC Youth For Christ and Singles For Christ GATs and other youth partners’ GK build immersion programs. 

It is evident that the unique concept of Ohana (family) remains alive in GK Youth; empowering each other to then inspire others. To bring hope, joy and meaning to the lives of young people is an important vision of GK Youth Australia. People choose different priorities or directions in life and GK offers a sense of fulfillment that unleashes hidden talents from people of all ages. Through humbleness and determination, the heart, mind and spirit of GK live on.

There is no full-time worker for Gawad Kalinga in Australia however, there are countless heroes and builders of the GK movement. One of the memorable highlights last year was the Operation Typhoon Relief wherein GK Youth, together with ANCOP Australia, garnered support in raising donations and managing contributions for the Typhoon Ondoy victims.

In 2010, the transition from Social Justice to Social Artistry, the next stage in GK2024 vision will begin and the introduction of Focus Groups will be implemented. New GAT participants are strongly encouraged to be involved and informed so that the unity and vision of GK Youth will continue to impact and inspire others.