Leaders aren’t born, they’re built. In a two-day gathering at UC Cañao Hall, the UC Peer Facilitators (UCPF) turned the spotlight on leadership, collaboration, and personal growth. Part training, part initiation, the General Assembly and Capacity Building event on January 13–14 was not just a look back at achievements but a forward-facing blueprint for building the next generation of changemakers. For the new recruits, it was a deep dive into what it means to lead with purpose and serve with impact, an experience that promised to shape not just their roles but their outlook on leadership itself.
The program began with a tone both reflective and uplifting, as UCPF President Jonabell Joy P. Carig underscored the organization’s firm mission to nurture leadership and community. Adviser Ma’am Stephanie distilled the essence of their work with a powerful statement: “Being a UC Peer Facilitator is not a title, it’s a function.” Her words struck a chord, reminding participants that their roles come with a profound sense of purpose and responsibility.
This sense of purpose was immediately reinforced through icebreaker activities led by Ma’am Daphne Espiritu. These exercises, which combined movement and interaction, went beyond simple warm-ups, encouraging participants to step outside their comfort zones and build camaraderie. As the foundation of trust continued to grow, the introduction of the Guidance and Counseling Office staff further highlighted the collective nature of leadership, providing participants with vital support as they embraced their new roles.
As the first day progressed, attention shifted to personal and emotional development, guided by Ma’am Leah Ann De Palma, the university’s Psychometrician. Through personality and emotional quotient (EQ) testing, participants gained valuable insights into their behavioral traits, strengths, and areas for growth. The session underscored emotional intelligence as a critical pillar of leadership, highlighting the role of empathy and self-awareness in effectively guiding others, a theme that would echo throughout the remainder of the training.
Building on this theme, Ma’am Stephanie’s lecture on self-awareness explored the foundation of effective leadership: the ability to understand oneself. She emphasized that true leadership begins not with guiding others, but with recognizing and managing one’s own thoughts, emotions, and reactions. Participants were encouraged to reflect on their internal processes, identifying the triggers and patterns that influence their decisions and interactions. The session underscored the idea that self-awareness is the foundation of clarity and compassion. Leaders who understand their own motivations and challenges are better equipped to empathize with others, adapt to diverse situations, and make thoughtful decisions. Far from being a theoretical exercise, Ma’am Stephanie’s lecture brought this concept to life, urging participants to view self-awareness not as a one-time introspection but as a continuous journey, one that fuels authentic and impactful leadership.
Day Two kicked off with an energizing Zumba session, setting a lively tone for the day. Following the workout, participants reflected on Day One’s lessons and dove into creative group activities, including crafting chants and sharing key takeaways. The morning continued with Ma’am Gladys Corpuz, LPT, leading a session on the “Five C’s of Community Leadership.” Consideration, Creativity, Commitment, Collaboration, and Communication were explored as essential tools for building resilience and unity. These principles, grounded in practicality, offered participants actionable strategies to enhance their leadership skills.
The “Two Kingdoms” challenge followed, offering a hands-on lesson in teamwork and communication. Participants worked through physical barriers to solve a shared problem, driving home the critical role of collaboration in achieving common goals.
The program culminated in a ceremony honoring the participants’ dedication, with certificates and photos capturing the moment. But it was the final reflections that left the deepest mark: leadership, they were reminded, isn’t defined by titles but by the ability to empower others and create lasting change. As the event drew to a close, participants left with more than just new skills, they carried with them a renewed sense of purpose. Armed with insights, a stronger sense of collaboration, and a commitment to service, these emerging leaders are poised to drive meaningful change, embodying a legacy of compassion and collective impact.
