SEALNet Circle Paintings and Endowment Fund Plans

ASEAN Heads of State contribute to Southeast Asian Unity through SEALNet Circle Paintings

Just as each of the 2007 summer projects have brought together students from around ASEAN and the world, each of the circle paintings is a reflection of the unique individuals involved in SEALNet and the nations that they represent. The SEALNet members as well as the local high school students involved in SEALNet have worked together to create the circle paintings in Cambodia, the Philippines and Vietnam. This effort demonstrates that not only can we connect through ideas, service, and leadership but that we can use art to understand each other as well.

On August 7, the three SEALNet circle paintings were presented to ASEAN Heads of State during the celebration of the ASEAN 40th anniversary in Singapore, and in a sign of Southeast Asian unity, these dignitaries added their own circles and impressions to the wonderful collages.

Singapore's Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong adding his personal touch to the circle paintings.

ASEAN Secretary-General Ong Keng Yong contributing to the Circle Painting as well.

SEALNet Service Leadership Endowment Fund

For the past three years, SEALNET has brought together ASEAN and US undergraduates for two-week summer projects in ASEAN countries. Mentored by working professionals, these undergraduates, who hail from universities across ASEAN and the US, identify local community partners, raise funds for them, and find innovative ways to add value to their existing work.

Beyond providing direct social impact to the communities that they have touched, SEALNet teams have also mentored and trained local high school students through their own innovative leadership and educational development workshops. This creates local engines for social change that sustain the work of the SEALNet teams, and also mobilizes the local youth to pursue their own socially meaningful initiatives.

In a world exploding with misunderstandings, these tangible acts of good will and trust are investments in future security and prosperity. These circle paintings will come to symbolize circles of trust and hope. The paintings will be sold or auctioned off as commemorative art works of beauty and meaning. All the proceeds will go towards creating a US$ 3 million endowment fund for youth community service in ASEAN.

For more information on how to contribute and invest in the future of Southeast Asia, please contact Leng Lim via email, or you can contact us.