Every year, Bangkok Patana recognises the achievements of students who bring about positive change in the school and the wider community. Through their Community Engagement initiatives which tackle global issues at the local level, our students demonstrate how young people can make a real difference.

You-TH received the Community Engagement Team of the Year Award 2026 for their work tackling poverty and supporting livelihoods in underprivileged communities in Bangkok. Working in partnership with iCare Thailand Foundation, the team raised funds to provide ten food carts to families living in low-income communities. These carts enable women to establish small businesses, generate an income and work towards greater financial independence. Through creative fundraising initiatives, including regular noodle sales and their popular Haunted House event, the team mobilised the Patana community to support their cause. Importantly, students also visited the communities they support, developing a greater understanding of the challenges faced by families living in poverty and the importance of sustainable solutions.

The Community Engagement Student Leader of the Year Awards 2026 were presented to Eliana Maruniak and Leonor from FLOW, in recognition of their outstanding advocacy and leadership in raising awareness about period poverty.

Through innovative social media campaigns, FLOW helped to challenge the stigma surrounding menstruation and educate young people about menstrual health. Their advocacy has extended into Primary, where they delivered educational sessions to Year 5 and 6 students, encouraging open conversations among both boys and girls.

Their work has also translated into direct action. FLOW raised over 15,000 baht to purchase essential sanitary and postnatal care products for vulnerable women and mothers. Visits to a women’s shelter provided opportunities to listen to their experiences and develop greater empathy and understanding.

Reflecting on the importance of their work, Eliana explained:

“Real change does not always come from grand gestures but rather from little acts that can also be powerful.”

Both You-TH and FLOW demonstrate the power of student leadership in Community Engagement. Through their initiative, compassion and commitment to action, these students are not only raising awareness of important issues but are also working with communities to bring about meaningful and lasting change.