๐๐๐ ๐๐๐ฅ๐๐ ๐๐ญ๐๐ฌ ๐๐๐ซ๐ญ๐ข๐๐ข๐ฉ๐๐ญ๐ ๐ข๐ง ๐๐๐๐๐๐, ๐๐๐ฅ๐๐๐ซ๐๐ญ๐ ๐ญ๐ก๐ ๐๐ฉ๐ข๐ซ๐ข๐ญ ๐จ๐ ๐๐จ๐ฅ๐ฎ๐ง๐ญ๐๐๐ซ๐ข๐ฌ๐ฆ
Fifteen Northwesternians joined the Philippine Association of Practitioners of Student Affairs and Services Interactive Youth Forum 2024 (PAPSAS IYF), on October 16-18 at the Bohol Plaza Mountain Resort and Restaurant, Dauis, Bohol. Attended by 364 delegates, the forum was centered on the theme “Volunteerism: Passion, Compassion, and Action,” aimed to inspire the next generation of youth leaders to actively participate in volunteer initiatives that drive social change and sustainable development.
The three-day event started with a keynote address by Mr. Donald James Gawe, Executive Director of the Philippine National Volunteer Service Coordinating Agency. He reiterated Gianmarco Palermo’s sentiment saying, “Individuals who volunteer have the potential to lead and inspire others toward a common objective.”
Mr. Gawe, a dedicated volunteer advocate, highlighted the benefits of volunteering in nurturing essential skills like communication, collaboration, problem-solving, and passion as the driving force behind impactful volunteer efforts. “Embrace volunteerism as an opportunity to develop your leadership skills while making a positive change. When individuals align their interests and passion with a cause they truly care about, the impact of their efforts will be profound,” he stated.
Mr. William Montoya Aranilla, President of Youth Lead Philippines, Inc., led a learning session encouraging volunteerism as a “way of life.” He underscored the deeper meaning of volunteerism, describing it as a commitment to hope, determination, and the willingness to serve others. “We need to focus on what we leave behind, not on what we take away,” he explained, urging the participants to consider what they can give rather than what they might gain from volunteering.
During his presentation, Mr. Aranilla introduced the AIDA approach, a framework for effective leadership: Awareness, Interest, Desire, and Action. He explained that raising awareness is the first step to inspiring change and that leaders must also educate others while continuing to learn themselves. Additionally, developing an interest and nurturing a desire to contribute is essential before finally turning these aspirations into real-world actions.
Furthermore, Mr. Aranilla highlighted several reasons why people volunteer and why they don’t. Reasons for volunteering included making a difference in others’ lives, supporting a cause, learning new skills, personal growth, and meeting new people. Conversely, he pointed out barriers such as not being asked, lack of clarity about volunteer tasks, or not finding meaningful volunteer opportunities.
He also emphasized that affirming oneself and others is crucial, urging participants to give themselves a “self-hug” and share affirmations with those around them. “We need that affirmation within us, we cannot give what we don’t have,” he said.
Mr. Aranilla further elaborated on “Your Part, Our Covenant,” a call to action designed to empower youth leaders to embody the principles of volunteerism. He focused on the importance of participation, encouraging individuals to be proactive and seize opportunities to get involved. And highlighted the need to accept diverse opinions, value different perspectives, and seek common ground despite differing ideas.
Following that, a panel discussion on sustainable development goals featured various perspectives, with student and expert representatives highlighting critical issues. Ms. Franciese Bhien Almirol, President of the Supreme Student Council at Batangas State University, Alangilan Campus, spoke about gender equality and climate action initiatives. Dr. Jaruvic C. Rafols, Adviser of the Peer Advocacy Program at Silliman University, addressed challenges related to poverty and health.
Mr. Virgilio B. Tabbu, Vice President for Student Services at the University of Makati, focused on quality education and strong institutions. The discussion aimed to equip student leaders with the knowledge to implement sustainable solutions within their schools and communities.
In an interview, Dr. Edna Gladys Calingacion, Chairperson of the Midyear IYF and Vice President for Private Universities and Colleges of PAPSAS Inc., emphasized the forum’s significance. “PAPSAS is a national organization that aims to empower Student Affairs and Services (SAS) practitioners who are on the frontlines addressing students’ needs,” she explained.
Dr. Calingacion expressed her satisfaction with the forum’s impact, noting, “Capturing the participation of 57 schools nationwide is heartwarming. The essence of the organization is present, and we are pleased with the positive feedback from practitioners.” She further highlighted the cascading effect PAPSAS hopes to achieve, where student leaders return to their schools with a framework to improve their communities through volunteerism.
The PAPSAS IYF will continue in its next run, scheduled for February 2025. Dr. Calingacion assured that the future forums would focus on subjects they find vital for youth empowerment and social development.
On the other hand, Prof. Augustina Dancel-Matias, Dean of the Office of Student Affairs (OSA), also shared her thoughts, expressing pride in the forum’s outcome. “Seeing our students engage and connect with other young leaders from across the country was truly rewarding,” she said.
She noted that the increased number of delegates from Northwestern University reflects the growing support for PAPSAS activities. “Our students are gaining valuable skills and insights from these experiences that they can bring back to benefit our campus community,” she added.
Furthermore, Prof. Matias expressed confidence that the delegates had many takeaways, including increased knowledge about volunteerism and leadership, expanded networks, and the potential for future collaborations. “I am hopeful that the delegates will resonate the experiences and insights they’ve gained to create better programs and activities for NWU,” she stated.
The forum also featured various workshops designed to foster collaboration among delegates, allowing them to exchange and synergize ideas and strengthen their leadership capabilities.
Participants had the chance to network and unwind during the Socials Night, where they showcased their beach attire in a fun, relaxed atmosphere.
As the 2024 Midyear IYF came to a close, participants reaffirmed their commitment to volunteerism.
The IYF in its 15th year, is a flagship program for student leadership development. It aims to influence how young leaders plan and execute programs in their schools, creating a ripple effect of positive change.
