Tell us something about yourself.
I am Faisah S. Hadji Sapiin from Marawi City Lanao del Sur. I was a Psychology graduate from Mindanao State University. I am a peace and mental health advocate who joins several youth organizations working on these advocacies. I was the College Representative of the College of Social Sciences and Humanities and Commissioner on Student’s Rights and Welfare in the MSU Supreme Student Government 2019-2022 where I was able to hone my leadership skills. I am a member of different youth organizations implementing projects related to youth participation, women empowerment, civic engagement, social inclusion, and social enterprises.
Tell us about your role in TPBPM.
I am the Community Mobilizer and Lead Facilitator in Lanao del Sur. I am in charge of organizing our communities in Lanao del Sur and facilitating peace education sessions for children in the bakwit village in Marawi City and elementary schools in Ramain, Lanao del Sur.
What are the highlights of your experience with TPBPM?
When I started working in Teach Peace Build Peace Movement I was amazed by their kind words and acts of kindness to people. I was being Influenced by their genuine engagements, hope, and energy for peace. Challenging but I was so happy to be part of this family. I will never regret being part of this organization. Hearing the different stories of kids and parents inspires me to be more genuine with my work and advocacy in life. Preaching my knowledge and experiences to participants is great zakat for the people I’ve met.
What have you learned from TPBPM that you have applied in your life?
As I become an I Teach Peace Facilitator, I learned to use constructive ways to managed differences and resolve conflicts. By practicing forgiveness and acts of kindness. Being mindful of what should I say or how should I respond to people I met and I talk to. Words are really powerful, and sometimes it is not what you say but “how,” you say those words that can impact other people. Controlling our own negative emotions and how to mindfully deal with them is one of the lessons I practice in my daily life.
What’s your advice for young women who wants to advocate for peace?
To young women out there, let’s join groups that advocate for peace and social justice to reap the benefits of mutual support and collective actions. Let’s give time for this kind of activity (Peace Missions). There are many practices or ways to accomplish peace. Let us be conscious keeping our mind at peace regardless of external circumstances.
Peace is —
When every individual has inner peace and when they know how to manage their own emotions. When they know how to deal with people they met and transform conflicts happening around them. And when everyone promotes fairness, respect, and dignity for all.
FAISAH HADJI SAPIIN
