Phoonseeraah “Ada” Tieanworn Transforms Thai Schools with Innovative Consent Game
At just 16 years old, Phoonseeraah “Ada” Tieanworn is leading a revolution in consent education across Thai schools with her groundbreaking initiative, the “Consent Game.” Currently a student at Choate Rosemary Hall in the United States, Ada has already impacted over 700 students in seven Bangkok schools by introducing essential lessons on respect, boundaries, and effective communication.
The Inspiration Behind the Consent Game
Ada’s journey into consent education began in 2024 through her school’s Bystander Education Program. This program provided her with valuable leadership experience focused on preventing sexual misconduct and promoting bystander intervention. Motivated by these lessons, Ada tailored the Consent Game to address prevalent issues such as bullying and peer pressure within the Thai context, officially launching it during the summer of 2024.
- Empowering Young Voices: “Respect and understanding are at the heart of strong communities,” Ada stated. “I want young people to feel confident in communicating clearly and respectfully.”
Engaging Educational Approach
Interactive Learning Through Role-Playing and Discussions
The Consent Game employs interactive methods such as role-playing, storytelling, and group discussions to help students navigate real-world scenarios. This hands-on approach fosters an understanding of both verbal and non-verbal cues, enabling students to better recognize and respond to different social situations.
- Positive Reception from Schools: Schools like Wat Bukkhalo and Bangpakok Witthayakhom have embraced Ada’s game, with many requesting her return for further sessions. The engaging format encourages meaningful participation among students.
Addressing Bullying and Cultural Norms
Tackling Bullying in Thai Schools
In addition to focusing on consent, Ada aims to combat bullying, which affects approximately 91% of Thai students according to the Department of Mental Health. By teaching youth how to stand up for themselves while respecting others, she seeks to shift cultural norms surrounding interpersonal interactions.
- Fostering Open Dialogue: Ada’s sessions often lead to heartfelt reflections among students, uncovering serious issues that schools can address promptly. This proactive approach helps create safer learning environments.
Future Aspirations for Broader Impact
Expanding the Consent Game Nationwide and Beyond
Ada’s ambitions extend far beyond Thailand. She envisions developing a digital version of the Consent Game to reach students across the nation and hopes to expand its impact into neighboring countries as well. Her goal is to promote empathy and open communication on a larger scale.
- A Vision for Change: “This is just the beginning,” Ada expressed. “I want to help as many kids as possible learn how to protect themselves and respect others’ rights and decisions.”
Inspiring Change Through Youth Leadership
Through her dedication and innovative vision, Ada exemplifies how young leaders can drive meaningful change in society. By prioritizing respect, kindness, and mutual understanding, she inspires a new generation of students to embrace these values. As Ada continues her mission, she paves the way for a future where consent education is integral to school curricula across Thailand and beyond.
