Written by Carl Lester Pang-es
“Leadership is an action, not a position. “
– Donald McGannon
He walks among the throng of students like everybody else. He does his best in academics but doesn’t forget to have a good time as well. Once in a while, he is probably seen shimmying to a trending TikTok dance just like the rest. He enjoys both worlds, doesn’t he?
However, he isn’t just like anybody else. Behind the facade of being a typical student, he carries the burden of taking on responsibilities and demonstrating leadership skills within their school. He serves as a representative for his peers, organizes events, and advocates for students’ interests. He is a school leader.
As a student leader of University of Baguio for years, he firmly believes that true leadership is not about being in charge, but leading by example and lifting each other up, knowing that their joint efforts today can shape the leaders of tomorrow. Together, they can create a school environment where everyone feels supported to reach their full potential.
Spearheading “Karkarna,” the yearly Halloween celebration of University of Baguio, has sharpened his creativity and innovation skills making this yearly event more exciting than the previous year. It also strengthened his relationship with other students, teachers and school administrators since it involves their teamwork and collaboration. Therefore, creating an inclusive school community. This has also built trust not just for him, but also for each other. By demonstrating enthusiasm, dedication, and involvement in this activity, he was able to inspire others to do the same.
He was also able to extend his leadership skills outside the university setting. It was during an outreach program done at Virac Elementary School in Itogon, Benguet. He and his team distributed hygiene kits and other goods to the students. Through this real-world experience, it has helped foster his empathy since it involved interacting with individuals from different backgrounds and cultures. Seeing the genuine happiness and satisfaction of the students clinched the real essence of leadership in him, to serve others.
Thus, these school and community activities, when led by a supportive school leader, have the power to create a better tomorrow by developing collaboration, innovation, leadership, and values among students, preparing them to make a positive impact on the world around them.
In a world where leaders are often perceived as corrupt, cunning and deceitful he believes that student leaders have the power to change this negative perception into positive one by leading with integrity, humility and honesty. As a result, a domino effect can happen. Show them good leadership that they might be good leaders someday. Student leaders have the power to make a positive impact on their school communities and inspire change among their peers.
In every challenge that you face, embrace it as an opportunity for growth and a chance to learn. With every success you achieve, use it as a stepping stone towards a brighter future. Stay determined and never underestimate the impact that you can have. Believe in yourselves, believe in each other, and together, you can make a difference.
