16-Year-Old Ada is Transforming Consent Education in Thailand

At just 16, Phoonseeraah “Ada” Tieanworn is changing the way students in Thailand learn about consent, communication, and respect. Through her innovative “Consent Game,” Ada has already reached over 700 students across seven schools in Bangkok, teaching them vital lessons on boundaries and empathy.

A student at Choate Rosemary Hall in the United States, Ada’s interest in consent education began in 2024 during her school’s Bystander Education Program. It was there she gained leadership experience in tackling sexual misconduct and promoting bystander intervention. Inspired by her training, Ada tailored the Consent Game to address issues like bullying and peer pressure in Thailand, officially launching it in the summer of 2024.

“Respect and understanding are at the heart of strong communities,” Ada explains. “I want young people to feel confident in communicating clearly and respectfully.”

What is the Consent Game?

The Consent Game combines role-playing, storytelling, and group discussions to help students understand both verbal and non-verbal cues in real-world scenarios. This hands-on approach has been embraced by Thai schools such as Wat Bukkhalo and Bangpakok Witthayakhom, where educators have praised the programme and requested Ada’s return.

The importance of her work is clear. According to the Department of Mental Health, 91% of Thai students experience bullying. Ada’s sessions not only address these critical issues, but they also encourage students to reflect on their experiences and provide schools with insights into problems that require immediate action.

Shifting Cultural Norms

Ada’s vision extends beyond tackling bullying. She aims to empower Thai youth to stand up for themselves while respecting the rights of others, creating a ripple effect of empathy and understanding across communities. Tailored to different developmental stages, her workshops often spark deep conversations and inspire positive change among students.

What’s Next for Ada?

Ada’s ambitions reach far beyond Thai borders. She is working towards developing a digital version of the Consent Game to broaden its accessibility across the country. She also dreams of expanding the programme to neighbouring nations, fostering a culture of open communication and mutual respect throughout the region.

“This is just the beginning,” Ada says. “I want to help as many kids as possible learn how to protect themselves and respect others’ rights and decisions.”

Ada’s dedication to creating meaningful change serves as a powerful reminder of the impact young leaders can have on society. Her inspiring work is paving the way for a future where respect, kindness, and understanding take centre stage in communities worldwide.