“Art has the ability to sustain the enthusiasm of communities and forge partnerships that ensure everyone’s role is seen, heard and felt”- Anna Karina Jardin
Art holds a power beyond expressing one’s creativity. A testament to this is the partnership between Artdialogo Asia and the Division of City Schools of Malabon. Their collaborative project, Seniskwela, merges creativity with education, giving students a platform for artistic expression and cross-cultural learning.
Led by artist and Artdialogo Asia CEO Anna Karina Jardin, Seniskwela was held at Tinajeros National High School in Malabon on February 26, 2024. The name combines "Seni" (Malay for art) and "(e)Skwela" (Tagalog for school), reflecting its purpose. More than a one-day event, it has evolved into a movement, inspiring young minds to use art as a tool for storytelling and cultural exchange.
The event featured painting competitions, workshops, panel discussions, and breakout sessions, helping students nurture their creativity. It also introduced them to artistic influences from Malaysia and beyond, strengthening international ties. Since its launch, Seniskwela has expanded to Tawi-Tawi and continues to inspire young Filipino artists.
This initiative was made possible through partnerships with the Embassy of Malaysia in the Philippines, the Lions Club, and Malabon-based art groups. Malabon City Mayor Jeannie Sandoval also expressed strong support for its impact on youth.
The idea to bring Seniskwela to Malabon stemmed from a conversation between Ms. Jardin , and a former high school teacher at PWU-JMD, Ms. Ana De Leon from Tinajeros National Highschool who had transitioned into the public school system. What began as a simple workshop has grown into a leadership program that encourages students to view art as a tool for communication, diplomacy, and change.
"Art is more than expression—it’s a way to connect, communicate, and build something bigger than ourselves," Ms. Jardin shared. Having lived abroad for nearly a decade, she realized the importance of sharing Filipino identity and traditions on a global scale.
Despite challenges in keeping Seniskwela inclusive and free from political influence, Ms. Jardin remained committed to the students and local communities, ensuring the program stayed true to its mission.
Looking ahead, she has just launched “Siningskwela” in Malaysia last February 25-27, 2025, an evolving international art trail in collaboration with the International Youth Center of Malaysia,The Ministry of Youth and Sports, and The patronage of the arts in Negri Sembilan of His Highness Tunku Zain Al-‘Abidin ; with the support of the Philippine Embassy in Malaysia and the filipino community. She hopes that this initiative will continue to champion Filipino heritage worldwide through the support of the Filipino communities abroad and art patrons.
By integrating art, heritage preservation and cross cultural understanding into education, they are helping young minds think critically, express themselves confidently, and see the world from a broader perspective. Artdialogo Asia and the leadership of Ms. Jardin continues to impact thousands of lives creatively in and out of the country.
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