Resonance: AIESEC in the Philippines' 55th Anniversary Conference - A Celebration of Leadership, Learning, and Legacy

Mar 09, 2024By Bettina Rae Marlise, AIESEC in Philippines National Team
Bettina Rae Marlise, AIESEC in Philippines National Team

As AIESEC in the Philippines marked its 55th year of inspiring young leaders, the national conference, aptly named "Resonance," became the centerpiece of this monumental celebration. Held at the serene Casa Azul Femar Resort in Antipolo, Rizal, from February 1st to 5th, the event unfolded as a testament to the enduring spirit and evolving legacy of this vibrant youth-led organization.

Key Highlights of Resonance:

Venue & Timing: Nestled in the picturesque landscape of Antipolo, Rizal, Casa Azul Femar Resort provided an ideal backdrop for reflection, learning, and growth from February 1st to 5th. The serene environment complemented the event's purpose, fostering a conducive atmosphere for deep engagement and strategic thinking.

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Theme & Purpose:

"Resonance" was chosen as the theme to symbolize the impactful and enduring ripple effects of effective leadership and community engagement. This theme was woven throughout the conference, guiding discussions, workshops, and activities aimed at reinforcing the principles of leadership, cultural understanding, and social responsibility.

Workshops & Learning Sessions:

A series of carefully curated workshops focused on real-life managerial skills, equipping participants with practical tools and insights to prepare for the future of their local committees and individual careers. These interactive sessions covered a range of topics from strategic planning and team management to personal branding and digital innovation.

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Operational Planning:

A significant portion of the conference was dedicated to operational planning, enabling local committees to design and refine their strategies for the upcoming year. These sessions were instrumental in setting clear, actionable goals and fostering a sense of shared purpose among the members.

Leadership Insights by Mr. Nandesh Goudar:

Under the guidance of Mr. Nandesh Goudar, the chairperson of the conference transcended traditional boundaries of learning. With his rich background as the current president of AIESEC in New Zealand and former president of AIESEC in Albania, Mr. Goudar infused the conference with global perspectives on leadership, innovation, and resilience. His sessions were not merely lectures but immersive experiences that challenged attendees to think beyond conventional boundaries and embrace new paradigms of leadership.

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Motivational Outcomes:

Beyond skill development and operational planning, the heart of Resonance lay in the inspirational stories and personal growth journeys shared by Mr. Goudar and other seasoned leaders. These narratives ignited a fire within the attendees, instilling long-lasting motivation to work smarter and with greater dedication toward making a significant impact in their communities and the broader job market.

Cultural Nights and Networking:

Embracing AIESEC's core value of cultural exchange, the conference also featured cultural nights and ample networking opportunities. These moments allowed delegates to celebrate diversity, build lasting connections, and share insights from their diverse backgrounds and experiences.

The Legacy of Resonance:

In the wake of "Resonance," the echoes of our collective aspirations and dreams reverberate beyond the walls of Casa Azul Femar Resort. It wasn't just another conference; it was our heart and soul, a congregation of 110 unique stories, each interweaving to form a vibrant tapestry of ambition and cultural wisdom.

Imagine the scene, a surge of energy as thirty of our peers, fueled by newfound insights and a hackathon's dynamic atmosphere, step forward to shape their destinies, filing around 30 applications for international internships within just two fleeting hours. This wasn't merely a statistic; it was a testament to our unwavering spirit, a clear signal that we, the youth of AIESEC in the Philippines, are ready to embark on journeys far beyond our local confines.

"Resonance" has indeed left an indelible mark on our journey, not because it was our 55th anniversary, but because it was a moment of awakening for many, myself included. We've ventured beyond the conventional, challenging the status quo, and in doing so, we've ignited a beacon of hope and ambition for what lies ahead.

As we step into the future, let's carry with us the lessons, the laughter, and the sheer will to effect change, not just within the confines of our local communities but as global citizens. The resonance of our actions today will define the legacy we leave for the generations to come.

woman holding brown umbrella