Mirus Ponon
Public Speaker, Student, and Project Manager in Brussels
Born in Manila and raised by the dream of creating lasting change, I turned early experiences with poverty into a lifelong commitment to service. Today, I lead as the Founder and Trustee of the ASEAN Youth Advocates Network, one of Southeast Asia’s largest youth-led movements, empowering thousands across the region.
My journey has taken me from being the youngest speaker at the United Nations Global Climate and SDG Conference to representing the Philippines in APEC Voices of the Future. Recognized by Tatler Asia’s Gen.T List, UN Asia-Pacific’s 30 for 2030, and the Presidential Youth Service Award, I continue to champion youth inclusion, climate action, and meaningful participation worldwide.
Currently, I am completing my Master’s in Cultural Anthropology & Development Studies at KU Leuven, Belgium, where my research explores youth mobility, development, and the Global South gaze in Europe.
🌍 42 countries walked, 500+ talks delivered, countless connections built all grounded in one belief: young people can and must shape the future.