Recently, I had an interesting conversation about the unique fulfillment one gets in helping your own country by working in the government. While I understand where this sentiment is coming from, I have mixed feelings about it. I am working in the government, albeit as a consultant, and technically that does not count as “government or public service.”

I find it frustrating to know that there is this notion that you have to be within the government ranks to be truly appreciated as someone contributing to the nation. I think this view is narrow and flawed. Making a difference, helping your own country in whatever capacity – these are NOT confined to government offices.

At this point in my life, I think millennials like me are making the right choices for ourselves. We are driven by purpose and passion. We have the country and our fellow Filipinos in our mind no matter where we find ourselves working, whether inside or outside the government. I would like to believe that our decisions are constantly shaped by our desire to collectively and positively contribute to society. For me, personally, this is something deeply ingrained in me. Wherever I am, whatever I do, my resolve remains: to uplift the Philippines.

Let us end these outdated views. We don’t need a government badge to prove that we are making a difference, that what we do are changing lives. Let our work speak for itself.