Syd Castillo is a regional leader in youth development and social impact with more than 27 years of experience supporting educational innovation, safeguarding, volunteer engagement, and capacity building initiatives. As Director for Education & Impact in the Asia-Pacific region, he works closely with national organizations and partners to strengthen youth programmes, promote inclusive leadership, and advance meaningful opportunities for young people. His work is guided by the belief that education extends beyond classrooms and that empowered young people can become active contributors to safer, more inclusive, and more sustainable communities.

Syd believes that young people thrive when they are trusted, included, and given meaningful opportunities to lead and contribute. Throughout his journey in youth development and social impact, he has seen how education, when grounded in dignity, safety, and inclusion, can transform not only individuals but also communities and organizations. His approach to leadership is rooted in service, collaboration, and the belief that lasting impact is built through empowering others rather than directing them. He is passionate about creating environments where young people feel valued, heard, and supported to grow into responsible and compassionate leaders who can help shape safer, more inclusive, and more sustainable societies.

Early Foundations

Syd Castillo began his journey in youth development through the Boy Scouts of the Philippines, contributing to educational publications, programme development, and youth training initiatives. These early experiences helped shape his commitment to values-based education, leadership development, and service to young people and communities.

Regional Leadership

For more than two decades, Syd has served with the World Organization of the Scout Movement Asia-Pacific Support Centre, supporting regional initiatives focused on education, social impact, safeguarding, volunteer engagement, and organizational development. His work involves collaborating with national organizations, volunteers, and partners to strengthen programmes and create meaningful opportunities for young people.

Current Areas of Focus

Today, Syd continues to lead and support initiatives related to:

• Youth Programme and Educational Innovation

• Scouts for SDGs

• Safe from Harm and Safeguarding

• Volunteer Engagement and Capacity Building

• Diversity and Inclusion

• Leadership Development and Strategic Facilitation