|
By Jennifer Lictawa, Contributor
THE L.E.A.P. (League of Extraordinary and
Admired Pilipinos) Youth Leaders Congress has entered its fifth year
with a brand-new theme: “A Big L.E.A.P. to a Brighter
Philippines,” which magnifies the pressing need to prepare the
young generation of Filipinos for their roles in charting the
direction of our country.
This joint project of the Rotary Club and Inner
Wheel Club of Makati North started from a gem of an idea hatched in
a coffee shop. The concept aims to tap the youth with their
idealism, energy and enthusiasm, to take our country on a big leap
forward.
The past four LEAP Leaders Congresses have been
a continuous source of inspiration to pursue this worthy goal,
providing our young leaders the benchmark for excellence and
patriotism.
As the one-day inspirational and interactive 5th
Congress unfolded, it has motivated the top graduating students from
colleges and universities all over Metro Manila to take concrete
steps to make a difference by being agents of change in their chosen
fields of endeavor. It has succeeded in equipping them with
inspiring experiences from outstanding Filipinos who continue to
shine in their respective fields.
Five powerful speakers passed on the dream for a
brighter Philippines that starts with a mindset of a clear vision of
a people that stands dignified and progressive in the community of
nations, and a belief in one’s ability to improve himself, his
community and country regardless of his situation in life. By its
call to action, the event paves the impetus for our youth to be
agents of change.
Being the prime mover of Gawad Kalinga to
transform slums into productive communities, Antonio Meloto imparted
his big leap of vision to the audience, while Dr. Onofre Pagsanghan
poured out his heart with his great passions—love of country and
the arts. These he has been able to harmonize with an all-consuming
dedication rarely found these days. When he talked, these passions
ring out loud.
Another presenter was Maoi Arroyo who shared her
story of success through her big leap of courage. “When someone
takes a risk, he may gain something but even though he achieves
nothing, he loses nothing,” she said. She is the CEO and founder
of Hybridigm Consulting, the first biotechnology-consulting firm in
the Philippines.
Meanwhile, Emiliano Zulberti said it was not a
mistake when he uprooted himself and his family from a comfortable
life in the United States to move to the Philippines. Dr. Josette
Biyo, for his part, a multi-awarded educator, believes that the
human spirit has no limits. “If you dream big and, you have the
determination and the will to pursue your dream, it will become a
reality.”
These world-class professionals were able to do
their share in laying the foundation for a pool of future leaders
who will one day take that big leap to create a brighter
Philippines.
|
