MARY ANNE JAO

Mary Anne Jao is a poverty reduction, social policy and labour specialist. She recently obtained her Master of Science in International Development Studies at the University of Amsterdam, Netherlands and her Bachelor of Arts in Consular and Diplomatic Affairs degree with honours at DLS-CSB, Philippines. Mary Anne has extensive professional experience in program coordination and policy-related work. She has worked with international institutions in the Philippines, including the Embassies of both South Korea and New Zealand.

“Do something today that your future self will be thankful for.”

Q: Tell us a few things about your country, and also your life's story!

Before moving to the Netherlands, I was born and raised in the Philippines.

Q: What was your experience of the global pandemic crisis? Did it change your life and/or your views about the world? If so, how?

I was studying for my postgraduate degree when the pandemic happened. I was in Rwanda, Africa doing my fieldwork when suddenly borders were closing in Europe. I then had to immediately rebook a ticket back to the Netherlands. I ended up completing my master's degree through online classes and virtual meetings for my thesis. It really changed my perspective on my personal life and career development. I highly value and appreciate my family, partner, and friends more than ever for being a huge part of my support system. I wouldn't have been able to finish school without these people backing me up. 

Life has its ups and downs but I learn that I have to see my struggles as an opportunity to grow and continue to build my character. Moreover, my mental health and wellbeing have become my top priorities. 

Q: What are some of the key challenges in your society currently?

With the recent pandemic, there is a rising number of people experiencing extreme poverty in my country. We have been heavily affected by the disruption of "social services, food insecurity, decreased human mobility, and prompted employment and financial losses" (Jao, 2020). 

Q: If you were to ask one thing from our current leaders, what would it be?

I would ask leaders to focus on climate change, reduce extreme poverty, and prioritize equality regardless of race, background and social status. 

Q: Why is the role of a mentor important for you?

Mentors have experiences and critical junctures in their careers that I want to learn from. This will give me the opportunity to learn and advance my knowledge. 

Q: Do you have a lesson that life has taught you and you would like to share? 

Rejections do not reflect who you are as a person - be it in your career when applying for jobs, or any aspects of your life. You must learn from it as it builds your character. 

Q: Name a project, a foundation or a person in your country that you think is doing great work in helping improve other people's lives!

Vico Sotto is a new generation of young leaders that shows transparency, accountability, and equality in leading the government. I would definitely want to see my country being led by such progressive thinkers who would ensure the safety, well-being, and socio-economic growth of the Philippines. 

Q: What are some of the challenges that women in your country face and what efforts are being made towards gender equality?

The Philippines is currently 17th in closing the global gender gap based on 2021 report. I would say that women need more opportunities and resources, especially in rural areas so that they can be more independent and empowered in society. 

Q: Share with us a phrase, a poem or a story that you love or you find interesting!

Do something today that your future self will be thankful for. 

Q: Can you share with us a project that you would like to make happen for your country or a cause that you are passionate about? 

The cause that I am passionate about is reducing extreme poverty, not just in my country but also around the world. We can definitely start by ensuring that education is accessible, especially to those who cannot financially afford to pay for their children's education.