Interfaith Youth in the Philippines Spearhead Digital Series to Offer Creative Solutions to COVID-19 Challenges
20200519The Religions for Peace (RfP) Philippines Interfaith Youth Committee (RfP Ph IYC) has spearheaded the COVID-19 Digital Series, where they record and edit videos and design graphics to widely share reliable information and messages of hope on social media. These young leaders are using their digital skills and media influence to offer creative solutions to the challenges their communities are experiencing due to COVID-19.
The COVID-19 Digital Series was launched on the RfP Philippines Facebook page on 23 March 2020 – just days after lockdown procedures went into effect in many places around the world, indicating the rapid response possible when responding to crises in a digital age.
The team produced three videos and over 20 graphics offering insight and creative tips to overcome challenges within their communities. Equipped with knowledge and resources from the World Health Organization and other experts, the group has shared content on many elements of the pandemic, from effective handwashing and the proper use and disposal of masks, to mental health and spirituality.
In evaluating the impact of this initiative, Jasmin Batac, Co-Chair of RfP Ph IYC’s Communications Team said that, “[The COVID-19 Digital Series] has helped develop community knowledge to slow the spread of the virus and gave people ideas on how to take care of their mental health and well-being without putting too much pressure on themselves.”
This attempt to help the community during the pandemic also proved to be helpful to the members who participated. Kaye Jimenez, Secretary of RfP Ph IYC, reflects, “Working on this project has somehow allowed me to relieve negative feelings because I know that it will be beneficial to a lot of people who are feeling the same way. This project brought me relief and a sense of companionship to the people we have reached.”
Collaborating on the COVID-19 Digital Series has increased interfaith collaboration, tightened personal bonds, and inspired youth members to be more understanding of a diversity of faiths and opinions.
Jimenez emphasized the inherent power of multi-religious collaboration, explaining that, “the multi-religious nature of the project has transformed it to be more inclusive, thus helping more individuals regardless of their beliefs.”
“Our project challenges young people to continue to be innovative and compassionate in response to the crises” explains the RfP Ph IYC. “Our capacity and the responsibility to be creative and innovative have never been more essential. During these times when we are
forced to physically stay apart is also the best time for us to come together. Let us stay hopeful and dedicated despite our current circumstances. With the help of one another, and support from our leaders, we will surely see better days.”
For more videos, graphics and knowledge, be sure to follow the work of the RfP Philippines Interfaith Youth Committee on the RfP Philippines Facebook page.
To stay up to date on work of RfP Youth around the world, follow the RfP Youth Media Team on Instagram.
How I Practice My Faith During Quarantine
Spiritual sustenance is another factor that is less discussed, but greatly affected by COVID-19. The group collaborated with religiously diverse friends and partners to record and edit a video showcasing personal faith practices during quarantine.
How to Cope During COVID-19 Pandemic
Several group members studied psychology in university, positioning them to create a helpful guide and video on how to care for mental health entitled, “How to Cope During COVID-19 Pandemic.”
How to Make Your DIY Faceshield & Disinfectant
In response to the challenge of accessing personal protective equipment and disinfectant, the group created and shared video tutorials of how to use recycled materials to handmake face shields and disinfectant.
The series started by amplifying essential facts from the World Health Organization and other experts, including effective handwashing and the proper use and disposal of masks.
Guides to support community members in caring for their mental health
The group shared these “Tips to Help the Community”
The group shared several resources including a playlist, podcasts, and videos for community members to learn and stay positive during the quarantine.