Young leaders in Iloilo celebrated their year-long development journey as they wrapped up the inaugural run of Ayala Foundation’s Leadership Communities (LeadCom) program in Iloilo City.
Mayor Jerry P. Treñas noted the participants’ “valuable contributions to community development”. In a message delivered by Special Assistant to the Mayor Matty Treñas, he further urged them to “cultivate a new wave of leadership committed to community enhancement and inclusive progress.”
He also shared his optimism saying, “To all the youth who not only participated but also tapped into their immense potential to lead, you represent the future of our country, especially our beloved city.”
The 10 teams of participants showcased their community projects at the culminating event attended by representatives from the local government, the Sangguniang Kabataan, the WeAreAyala Business Club of Iloilo, and other stakeholders on August 1 at the New Iloilo City Hall.
“Core to our LeadCom program is investing in next-generation leaders who are able to build local coalitions and make a sustainable impact on their own communities,” shared Ayala Foundation President Tony Lambino.
LeadCom aims to harness the power of the youth to become changemakers through a multi-stage program that hones their skills in leadership, program management, and problem-solving while allowing them to engage with issues and concerns affecting their communities.
Lovely Joy Palis, a participant and alumna of the Ayala Young Leaders Congress, reflected on her experience saying, “It opened a door for me to grow more as a person and to develop my leadership skills. From a novice leader to a passionate-driven, visionary, people-centered, and strength-based leader.”
Among the initiatives of this year’s batch of LeadCom fellows are livelihood training for out-of-school youth and Indigenous Peoples, leadership development for elementary school students, and reading programs to promote literacy. With the support of 157 volunteers, the project teams were able to directly benefit 303 community members.
Iloilo City is the fifth location in Iloilo province to implement the program, following the municipalities of Estancia, Carles, Anilao, and Pavia. Since its launch in 2010, LeadCom has reached 52,000 community members through projects implemented by participants in 11 regions.
“We are excited to welcome our 50 Iloilo youth leaders to the LeadCom alumni community of over 3,000 individuals, all committed to serving people in their own spheres of influence,” Lambino said.
LeadCom Iloilo is supported by Mitsubishi Corporation and the Iloilo City government.