Age: 22
Graduated from: Ateneo de Manila University
Going to: Ateneo Law School
“Never in peaceful times stand idle,” said Nicolo Machiavelli, an Italian Renaissance diplomat and philosopher, in his work The Prince. Preparation has been a major factor amid these turbulent times that have raised effective governance and policy implementation from the ineffective. We have seen governments that have been able to roll out measures that contained the pandemic due to decisive leadership, efficient implementation and healthcare systems that are readily in place; and we have also seen governments caught flat-footed because they lacked all of the above.
My hope for the future is that world leaders make the most of “peaceful” times by preparing for situations that may blindside us. They must be ready to make the necessary adjustments in life-changing times, such as schools transitioning to online learning, medical facilities being able to handle increased capacity, and governments setting aside adequate budgets for stimulus packages. Crisis preparedness lessens the impact of disasters on nations, prepares organisations for an increase or decrease in activity and lays down a plan that reduces the loss of time, resources and lives.
The adversities our world is facing in 2020 have shown me that what I had been taught growing up applies in real-life situations. My parents instilled in me that one should never be too complacent, as we will end up losing the sense of urgency and hunger for intentional growth, personal improvement and initiative. When we are challenged by trying times, it is important to have a sense of proactiveness and the leadership to not only be able to protect ourselves, but to help our fellow countrymen as well.
As a recent graduate, my fellow batchmates and I are entering a world very different from the one we once knew. In fact, it is like the whole world is part of Class 2020. We are now transitioning into a future so uncertain, a “new normal” wherein we are all being given a fresh start on an unfamiliar playing field. We do not know what the future holds or what comes next, so we must deliberately prepare, while still pursuing our dreams and passions that will drive us to thrive and make a difference.