LOOB’s Vision of Cross-Cultural Empowerment

 

Yukie Kobayashi-Loot’s passion for youth development was sparked during her younger years as a student volunteer in a youth cultural exchange program. Her immersion in the Philippines in the mid-90s profoundly impacted her. It fostered a deep love for the country and inspired her to give back.

Through the exchange program, she recognized the transformative potential of youth engagement, particularly in bridging cultures between Japan and the Philippines. After graduating from college in Japan, Loot found herself uninterested in pursuing traditional career opportunities in her home country.

Instead, she returned to the Philippines, initially without intending to establish an organization. She began working as a Japanese translator, writing news for NNA Asia (Philippines), a role that deepened her understanding of cross-cultural communication.

Her journey took a new turn when she settled in Iloilo City with her husband. In 2001, they co-founded Love Our Own Brethren (LOOB) Inc., a non-profit organization dedicated to grassroots intercultural exchange and youth empowerment. Their mission was clear: to foster meaningful connections between Japanese and Filipino youth while supporting marginalized communities in their pursuit of self-sufficiency.

For over two decades, LOOB has championed youth development and community engagement through immersive programs. Guided by the philosophy of "learning and growing together with local people, not one-sided support," the organization has hosted international work camps, SDGs leader training programs, and educational initiatives that bridge cultures and cultivate future changemakers.

LOOB’s programs span both countries. In Iloilo, initiatives such as the English & Social Action Program (ESAP) and Internship in the Philippines provide students with hands-on learning and community immersion experiences. Meanwhile, in Japan, their Internship Program and SDGs Academia Global Education Platform offer opportunities for Japanese youth to engage in sustainable and cross-cultural development.

Since its inception, LOOB has carried out numerous community-assisted projects in underserved rural and urban areas, where economic opportunities remain scarce and government-led initiatives are limited. Through partnerships in education, livelihood, and work camp programs, the organization has cultivated strong, enduring relationships with these communities. Volunteers from both nations work hand in hand, fostering mutual growth and collaboration.

"The best thing about LOOB is that I can contribute to youth development," she reflects.

"We see students gain confidence after participating in our programs. They build lasting friendships between Filipino and Japanese youth."

Like many non-profit organizations, LOOB faces financial challenges in sustaining its operations. Beyond funding concerns, Kobayashi is contemplating the future leadership of the organization—who will continue their advocacy when she and her husband can no longer manage LOOB?

Recognizing the need for long-term sustainability, LOOB Japan was founded in 2014 to serve as a counterpart, supporting the Philippine-based operations. The organization has also aligned its programs with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), committing itself to achieving impact across ten of the seventeen global objectives.

Beyond youth empowerment, LOOB has expanded its advocacy to community development, providing education assistance and alternative livelihood support to financially struggling households. During the pandemic, they established the LOOB Youth Hostel, which has since become a haven for volunteers, young travelers, and students seeking immersive cultural experiences in Iloilo City.

To further support local livelihoods, the organization is now exploring the agricultural sector, particularly coffee farming. She envisions introducing Iloilo coffee to the local and Japanese markets, a venture currently in its developmental phase through a partnership with Pakiburak, an advocacy coffee platform founded by Ariel Lastica.

As LOOB marks 24 years of service, Loot remains deeply grateful for the impact of its programs. She hopes that former participants will become changemakers in their communities, continuing LOOB’s mission and inspiring future generations to uphold its advocacy.