As members of Rays of Youth-Youth Network Group, Naw Eh Khone and Yuri embarked on their journey to Bangkok in June 2025. This monumental trip was specifically aimed at addressing and voicing concerns over child exploitation and cyberbullying on digital platforms.
Both Eh Khone and Yuri turned up for the OCSEA & Stop Cyberbullying workshop organized by Internet Foundation. While they participated as migrant youth representatives at the national forum at TK Palace Hotel, Thailand Institute of Justice (TIJ) and True Digital Park for the first time, along with navigating an unfamiliar city using BTS, they enjoyed the view of colorful city lights on Phraya River. The duo also observed numerous signs celebrating Pride Month which made them consider justice related to LGBTQ+ issues.
During the training sessions, participants were informed about Online Child Sexual Exploitation And Abuse (OCSEA), cyber laws related to children, AI rights threats, as well as strategies for youth engagement in digital safekeeping. Both Yuri and Eh Khone proposed reforms after experiencing dynamic group case exploration scenarios involving legislative brainstorming for various social issues integrated with a countrywide youth summit.
“I was nervous at first,” Yuri shared, “but seeing other youth confidently share their thoughts made me want to speak up too.”
On Day 4, at TIJ, they participated in the Stop Cyberbullying Day discussion where students’ testimonies were presented before officials from the government, NGOs, and private technology businesses. The two became greatly motivated after learning about Restart Academy, which supports justice-involved youth and women returning to society.
Though they had to travel back to Mae Sot before completing the program's last day, unlike many fellows who return home with only memories and photographs, these two returned back motivated to instigate change in their communities. Now both are actively participating in campaigns aimed at raising awareness among their peers within the Rays of Youth Network.
It is not just a story about a journey; rather it depicts two adolescent changemakers discovering their potential, embracing advocacy for social justice issues while embarking on a new path as defenders of digital safety.
Youth action ignites transformational momentum.
