Hawaii: Six students from the Mariano Marcos State University College of Teacher Education (MMSU-CTE) are currently participating in a cultural and language immersion program, the Nakem International Conference, in Hawaii. The initiative aims to strengthen MMSU's ties with Filipino communities in the region, bringing together Ilocano scholars, educators, and cultural advocates.
According to Philippines News Agency, the education exchange program, which runs until November 28, is conducted in partnership with the University of Hawaii. Louisse Nicole Manding, a first-time exchange student from Dingras town, shared her initial apprehensions about the experience. "To be honest, I felt extremely nega (negative) at first because the pressure was so heavy. I kept stressing and doubting myself, wondering if I even deserved to be there," she said in a previous interview. However, as she began presenting, her perspective shifted. "I realized that our story matters too. Our journey, our struggles, and our voice," she added, emphasizing the significance of sharing their experiences as young Ilocanos.
Manding served as one of the panelists, providing insights on what it means to be a global Ilocano youth. She expressed gratitude for the support received and the meaningful experience of being part of Nakem's 20th year, highlighting the importance of young voices in cultural discussions.
Another delegate, Zyda Ysobel Manglal-lan from Batac City, expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to visit Hawaii, despite it not being part of her travel bucket list. "Getting here was not easy, but I am thankful for the experience. I have no regrets, only lessons, growth, and meaningful encounters that I will carry forward," she stated. The delegates participated as panelists in the session "I Am a Global Ilocano Youth," where they discussed identity, language, and their experiences growing up as Ilocanos in a globalizing world. They also performed a cultural presentation during the Nakem Gala Night on November 22.
The program, established through a memorandum of agreement between MMSU and the University of Hawaii signed earlier this year, aims to enhance students' linguistic and cultural competencies while strengthening the Philippine university's connections with Filipino communities abroad and its partner institutions. It is envisioned that through similar immersion programs, students will appreciate multicultural learning and build global networks for future academic and professional opportunities.
