More than one hundred fifty (150) youth leaders came together at the San Vicente National High School Conference Hall for the “Empowered Minds, Inspired Youth Leaders” workshop. The event focused on strengthening leadership skills while promoting mental health awareness. Among the participants were Supreme Secondary Learners’ Government Officers, Student Organization Representatives, and Classroom Officers, all eager to learn and grow as young leaders.

The workshop kicked off with an icebreaker activity called “Search and Rescue,” which encouraged teamwork and strategic thinking. This was followed by engaging discussions on different leadership styles, the essential qualities of a great leader, and the various types of followers. To make the learning experience more interactive, students took part in a role-playing exercise, where they portrayed different leadership styles, gaining insights into how each approach affects a group’s success. The leadership session wrapped up with the “Human Knot” activity, reinforcing the importance of teamwork, collaboration, and problem-solving. In the second half of the workshop, the focus shifted to mental health awareness and self-care. Facilitators led discussions on common mental health challenges, stress management techniques, and the importance of breaking the stigma surrounding mental well-being. To help participants apply these concepts in their daily lives, they were guided through mindfulness exercises and a journaling activity, allowing them to reflect on their own mental wellness.

The workshop successfully combined hands-on activities with meaningful discussions, highlighting the importance of self-awareness, resilience, and compassionate leadership. Equipped with these new insights, the participants left feeling more confident and prepared to lead, support their peers, and advocate for mental well-being in their schools and communities.