Carlo Sumaoy

John Carlo Idang Sumaoy is a youth leader, communicator, journalist, and advocacy-driven community organizer from Laguna whose work focuses on inclusive development, youth empowerment, and civic engagement. A proud graduate of Laguna Senior High School, where he completed his senior high school education with academic distinction. He has built his leadership journey through active participation in communication work, youth organizations, and community-based initiatives that aim to amplify marginalized voices, particularly persons with disabilities.

His passion for communication and journalism began early when he served as a Former Associate Editor in his school publication at the age of 12. This early exposure developed his skills in writing, editorial work, and storytelling—eventually leading him to participate in the Regional Schools Press Conference (RSPC) in categories such as Radio Broadcasting and Copyreading. Today, he continues to apply his communication skills through the creation of publication materials, advocacy campaigns, and creative content that support youth engagement and organizational development.

Currently, he serves as Director for Publications and Creatives of the FPJ Youth Laguna Chapter, where he leads the development of communication strategies, creative outputs, and informational campaigns for youth programs. He is also actively involved in the broader youth development movement under the Kabataan sa Kartilya ng Katipunan (KKK) national organization, contributing to initiatives that promote leadership formation, nationalism, and active citizenship.

A strong advocate for inclusivity, he initiated and engaged in efforts addressing the concerns of persons with disabilities (PWDs) in his municipality through dialogue with local government stakeholders, contributing to discussions that support the creation of more inclusive youth-centered policies. His advocacy reflects his commitment to ensuring that no young person is left unheard or unseen in community development processes.

He also led and initiated the community-based project “Tinig Inclusivo”, an organization focused on promoting awareness and inclusivity for PWDs and marginalized youth sectors. Through this initiative, he continues to push for equal opportunities, representation, and social awareness within his community.

In times of crisis, Carlo demonstrated grassroots leadership through “Banana Chips ni Juan for Everyone,” a community fundraising initiative created during a severe flooding incident in Santa Cruz, Laguna. By utilizing locally available resources, he produced and sold banana chips to generate funds that were directly used to support affected families—reflecting his belief in practical, compassionate, and action-based leadership.

Beyond leadership and advocacy, he is also a writer, choreographer, and church volunteer at Immaculada Conception Parish. He has participated in various local, national, and international youth development programs, including leadership forums, debates, oratorical activities, and the ASEAN Youth Entrepreneurial Global Summit, held in Manila, Philippines, where he engaged with young leaders from different countries.

He also completed an online program on “Entrepreneurship in Emerging Economies” under Harvard Business School Online, further strengthening his understanding of innovation, development, and social entrepreneurship.

As a young leader, Carlo Sumaoy continues to embody a vision of leadership grounded in service, inclusivity, communication, and youth empowerment. His journey reflects a commitment to building communities where every voice matters, every story is heard, and every young person is given the opportunity to lead and create change.