Young Achiever
Honouree
Jean Dinco
Philippines
Hello! My name is Jean Dinco and I am a storyteller. Coming from a working class family, my journey has been influenced by my passion for activism that amplifies the voices of those who are often overlooked and deliberately silenced. Being part of the queer community is a big part of who I am, and fighting for our rights is something I’m deeply committed to. My whole life, I’ve been pushing for a future where working class people get the respect, acknowledgment, and rewards they deserve—a future where it’s all about respect and looking out for each other instead of just chasing profits.
My social media: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeandinco/
Tell us about your work
Throughout my journey, I’ve embraced various roles and responsibilities—be it as an advocate, researcher, or communicator—with a common goal: supporting human rights. In 2022, the European Commission honored me with a Peace Ambassadorship, and I had the privilege of speaking at the One Young World Summit. My project, which aimed at gamifying rights, gained recognition at the United Nations Oxford Youth Competition. In 2014, I released a film named “Rainbow X” highlighting the rise in hate crimes against queer individuals, earning an award from the International Business Communicators.
At the 2018 Human Rights Campaign Summit, I underscored the powerful role films can play in raising awareness about LGBTQ rights. The year 2022 was also a significant year as I was listed among the Top 100 Women in AI Ethics worldwide by Women in AI Ethics. Each accolade, from being a Salzburg Global Media Fellow to a finalist for the Nobel Peace Prize Challenge in 2022, further strengthens my dedication to advocating for rights and freedom of expression. It was also super humbling to see myself in Vanity Fair’s February 2023 issue and to pick up the Young Changemaker Award in November in D.C! For me, these aren’t just pats on the back for me – they’re reminders that we’ve all got to keep pushing towards a world where everyone’s rights are recognized and everyone can express themselves freely. Every bit of acknowledgement keeps me going.
What one achievement you’ve accomplished that you’re most proud of? Why?
The accomplishment that holds the significance to me isn’t something like a trophy or an impressive title. It’s the daily fight I have with depression and eating disorders, and the wins I rack up against them, day after day. This personal journey means more to me than any public acknowledgment for my other work. Every day throws new challenges my way, and I have to face down my own demons again and again. These victories might be invisible to others, but for me, they’re solid proof of my toughness and courage. They’re not just about celebrating how far I’ve come. They also give me hope and inspiration for the challenges still ahead, which I plan to tackle with the same grit and grace.
What do you find most challenging about your work? Why?
It’s definitely navigating the delicate balance between fast-paced tech advancements and ethical considerations. You see, technologies like facial recognition are sprinting ahead, but they often leave folks from working-class backgrounds in the dust. It feels like we’re all caught in a system where the dazzle of capitalism can blind us, making us chase after profits at the expense of ethical standards and people’s dignity. What really stands out here is that we are all working within a system where capitalism often blinds people and convinces them to prioritize profit over standards and human dignity.
Under capitalism, technological progress sometimes overlooks the rights and dignity of those who are already marginalized. This capitalistic mindset often makes it difficult to ensure that technology serves everyone in a just manner. It requires not just our vigilance but strategic action and a strong voice to advocate for those who might be negatively impacted by these advancements. Keeping technology ethical in a world focused on profit? That’s definitely a challenge worth fighting for.
What do you do to recharge your battery?
I love diving into the world of video games! It’s a space where I can jump into different roles and go on all sorts of adventures, all while chilling at home. There’s something super cool about wandering through these digital worlds; they offer me a much-needed break from real life. Then there’s Heidi, my dog! Playing with her brings me so much joy! Her energy is contagious. Her playful behaviour never fails to make me laugh and feel happy. Whether we’re tossing a ball or going for walks, Heidi helps me take a step back, savour the moment and stay grounded. Oh, and I’m really into arthouse films. Watching movies that make me think allows me to explore different perspectives and stories from all corners of the globe.
What is your vulnerability and how do you overcome it?
I often find myself taking on a lot, maybe because my battles with depression, anorexia, and bulimia have left me feeling isolated and lonely. These struggles have somehow convinced me that I should handle everything on my own. But little by little, I’m learning it’s okay to lean on my friends, family, and amazing partner. Sharing my journey means we get to celebrate the small wins together and put our heads together to solve problems. My struggles aren’t just mine; they’re ours. Together with my loved ones, we navigate through, healing and coming back stronger each time.
You have been nominated for the Young Achiever category.
What was your reaction and please, tell us why?
I was totally surprised to learn I was up for the Young Achiever award! Feeling grateful and thrilled doesn’t even begin to cover it. For me, it’s not really about getting recognised. It’s more about shining a light on the hard work and sacrifices of the whole LGBTQ+ community in our ongoing struggle for fairness, justice, and acceptance. This nomination isn’t just about me. It’s for all the folks who’ve been knocked down but kept going, never stopping in their fight for recognition and equal rights.
What warm/hopeful message that you would like to share with the communities in the Asia Pacific?
I want to highlight that our diversity is our biggest strength. It’s like a canvas showing all our stories, struggles, and victories. Every story, challenge overcome, and success adds to this big, beautiful, and strong picture. But we’ve got to watch out for the big companies that want to use our diversity to make money. We need to deal with the problems this causes while also fighting for the rights of regular working folks, and pushing back against systems that make money from our hard work without giving us what we deserve in return.
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