I am Mahir Pacalna Ibrahim (16) an exchange student of the Kennedy Lugar-Youth Exchange and Study program (KL-YES) from the Philippines. I have been dedicating my time here in the US volunteering with the hope that at least I can contribute something for the betterment of our community. I am managed by Worldlink Inc. Annually the KL-YES program participates in Global Youth Service Day a campaign of YSA (Youth Service America) an international leader in the youth service movement mobilizes the millions of young people who improve their communities each day of the year through service. Global Youth Service Day is the largest youth service and civic action event in the world and the only one that celebrates and builds the capacity of all youth ages 5-25 to help our communities and democracy thrive by working together for the common good. 

The public achievement Leadership program is a leadership program dedicated to Worldlink exchange students. Students under the program are required for community service GYSD community projects etc. As a part of the leadership program, I am eager to pursue my lifelong advocacy for vulnerable sectors of our community.

My project is called BEAT FOR PEACE it is a one-night benefit concert for Ukraine. It is a great opportunity for us to show sympathy to the people of Ukraine. It is a free admission event however you can donate cash in the donation box in the actual event. Various phenomenal artists will be performing.

I chose this cause because I have been in a war before. On May 23 2017 Marawi city The Philippines was attacked by an extremists group. Thousands of Maranaos including me fled our own land for our survival or else we die. Ukraine is in crisis and they need us they need humanity through us. This will not be possible with you all people of Colorado Springs. Please let us all conspire for Ukraine. We have been through WWl WWll and other world wars. In this generation, we need to BREATHE not WWlll.