#46: Rethink The Grind, Discover Your Why
A mid-year update from our editor, and what you can expect from SEAmplified in the months ahead
Hey there, Zhan Tiam here, founder of SEAmplified.
In our year-end reflection for 2024, we shared that this year, we wanted to connect you in person with ideas, possibilities, and opportunities in Southeast Asia.
Just a few weeks ago, we took the first big step in this direction by hosting our first-ever community event: SEAcret Gatherings.
The Gathering
Even before the session officially began, conversations were already flowing as people streamed in. It set the tone for what turned out to be a special night.
At one point, when I had to interrupt the conversations to rotate groups midway, the audience let out a collective “ooh”. It signaled that people were enjoying deep conversations and were not ready to stop.
That moment struck me.
It reminded me that when a group of like-minded youths come together, even strangers can connect in unexpected ways.
I recall a conversation at one of the tables: together with our secret guests, we had been sharing about our respective experiences in Indonesia and Laos, while others listened with curiosity.
Toward the end, a participant said, “I discovered so much more about what Southeast Asia can offer.”
This is exactly how we envisioned SEAcret Gatherings to be in the first place. We created an intimate space for youths who find networking sessions intimidating, yet want to learn about opportunities in Southeast Asia, forging genuine connections along the way.
If you missed it, check out the photos and videos from the event on Instagram (@seamplified.youths), and join the waitlist for future editions!
Fresh Inspirations
Right after the event, I embarked on a two-week regional leadership program to Chiang Mai, Thailand.
Together with buddies from Chiang Mai University, we went on field visits to various local communities within and outside the city to learn how they pursue community development, achieve environmental sustainability, and preserve the city’s unique heritage.
One of the more memorable field trips was to the Tai Lue community. They warmly welcomed us with a traditional ceremony, treated us to a spread of food, and gave us a glimpse into how they are preserving their way of life while adapting to modern life.
Another memorable field trip was to a mountainous village area called Mae Kam Pong.
Decades ago, many youths left the village in search of better opportunities in the city.
But after the village began developing itself as a community-led tourist destination, many of these youths returned, opening cafes and guesthouses, running digital campaigns, contributing financial resources, and building a future in the village instead of away from it.
What’s remarkable is that all this was achieved without sacrificing nature. The waterfall and mountains remain an integral part of the village landscape!
Experiences like these remind me why SEAmplified exists.
It also got me thinking: How can we better position ourselves as a community platform that helps young adults get inspired by Southeast Asia, together?
Our New Tagline
This is why we’re unveiling our new tagline: Rethink The Grind, Discover Your Why.
We live at a time when it feels like everyone is grinding for internships, job titles, and their resumes.
We rarely have the time to pause, reflect, and ask: Why am I doing all this? What does a meaningful life and career look like?
SEAmplified exists to hold space for these questions. We believe that Southeast Asia, with its diverse cultures and possibilities, is the perfect place to rethink the grind and discover your why.
So, what can you expect from us in the months to come?
Street interviews on life, work, and culture in Southeast Asia
More SEAcret Gatherings to meet like-minded youths in an intimate setting
Exposure trips that take you to the heart of the region’s creativity and culture
Workshops to help you gain relevant skills to connect with regional peers and opportunities
And more content that amplifies possibilities and youth voices across the region
Whether you’re feeling lost, curious, or just want to meet others figuring things out, we hope SEAmplified helps you to navigate those uncertainties and feel a little more inspired.
On this note, we are looking for content contributors to join us to amplify our impact! If you’re interested in creating content on youths and Southeast Asia, find out more here and drop us a pitch at hello@seamplified.com!
That said, if there’s anything else you think we should be doing to promote Southeast Asia to more youths, or you would like to work with us, feel free to drop us an email.
If our work resonates with you, hit the subscribe button and connect with us on Instagram and LinkedIn. We hope to see you soon!
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Have a new idea or lead for a story, feedback on our work, or just want to say hi? Email us at hello@seamplified.com.