Youth Leaders Rise for the Environment at KaRoN Youth Training 2025
The Notre Dame of Kidapawan College (NDKC) Community Extension successfully held the KaRoN Youth Training on July 19, 2025, at the NDKC Student Center with the theme “Now is the Time: Young Voices for the Rights of Nature (KaRoN).” KaRoN, which literally means “now” in Cebuano, also stands for Kabataan for Rights of Nature. It reflects both the urgency of the environmental crisis and the vital role of young people in protecting the planet. The theme underscores that now is the time for the youth to speak up, act, and lead the movement for the Rights of Nature (RoN).
The event brought together 60 Tri-People Youth Leaders from 15 youth organizations across Kidapawan City and neighboring municipalities in North Cotabato. Among the participants were parish and diocesan youth leaders, Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) officers, student councils, Muslim youth, and Indigenous People (IP) youth representatives.
The training was graced by City Mayor Atty. Jose Paolo M. Evangelista, who inspired the youth with his message of hope and responsibility, and City Councilor Dr. Ted Matthew P. Evangelista, who urged them to be strong voices for the environment in their respective communities.
Throughout the day, participants engaged in discussions and workshops focused on:
- Understanding the Rights of Nature
- Balancing sustainable and economic development
- Embracing the Sapat Lifestyle
- Creating action plans for environmental advocacy
This was not just a discussion. It was a powerful convergence of young visionaries stepping up to act for Mother Nature and for the future. Bold ideas were shared, innovative solutions were crafted, and personal commitments were made.
As a culminating activity, each group presented their environmental action plans which is a roadmap of how they will promote the Rights of Nature and influence change in their local communities.
The KaRoN Youth Training 2025 is a testament to the passion, creativity, and dedication of the youth. It marks the beginning of a greater movement where young leaders rise together for a greener and more sustainable future.
