YOUNG SOUTHEAST ASIA – 40 Inspiring Youths is a testament to the abilities and the excellence of the youth in this region, providing a glimpse into the bright future that awaits the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

To commemorate ASEAN’s 40th anniversary, this publication – the first of its kind – contains profiles of 40 exceptional, inspirational, and interesting young individuals from Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Viet Nam – the 10 ASEAN members. It tells their stories: the trials they had to face, as well as the triumphs they had to work hard to achieve. Coming from all corners of the region and with backgrounds as varied as the languages and dialects they speak, the youths featured in this book will show us that though diverse, they still have noteworthy commonalities: the everyday heroism that they exhibit and the hopeful future they collectively embody.

The publication not just features these 40 inspiring youth, but was itself written, edited, and photographed by youths from the member countries.

The publication is divided into four chapters: COURAGE, COMPASSION, COMMITMENT, and CREATIVITY. With all of these four traits, an inspired new generation has begun to shape the future of Southeast Asia… through the ways it knows best, and in embodying a belief that neither age nor origins are limits.