THE FOUNDATION of the late American musician Nile Rodgers recognized a De La Salle University student for leading a youth advocacy program.

The organization said the determination of Mirus Ponon, 19, led to various campaigns as far as youth empowerment is concerned.

It also noted how Ponon has been consistent with his vision for “a global family by creating programs that promote cultural diversity while nurturing and mentoring the vision, talents, and ideas of young people who are positively changing the world.”

The foundation further said his poverty did not hinder him, but instead motivated the student to advocate for disadvantaged communities.

“His service journey led him to numerous opportunities, leadership roles, and eventually he was selected as one of three Filipino students to participate in the ASEAN Youth Conference, and elected as the Philippine Officer of the ASEAN University Student Council Union,” the foundation said.

“He was determined to use his platform to empower other young people to take the same journey,” it added.

The student was awarded the 2021 Global Teen Leader.

Ponon is the founder of the ASEAN Youth Advocates Network with over 20,000 volunteers that has helped 150,000 people.