EXAMINING THE CANDIDATES: A DIFFERENT TAKE ON LEADERSHIP

By Bernadette Clarisse C. Morilla

“Sinong candidate ang iboboto mo?

May i-aabstain ka ba?”

The usual exchange that we could all relate to during the election period. There is no doubt that AMVians are all adept — critical with our examination answers and systematic in fulfilling the tasks. But are we meticulous enough to determine competent candidates that will enormously influence the student body? The weight is in your hands — Make the most out of your choice.

Wires Crossed

You may cross the verge of the line through boots and saddles. In facing odds and taking the root of the deficit, you embrace the progress and inflame enthusiasm. Lapses are fated, and so is fervent demeanor.

“Lack of accountability, empathy, and communication are colloquially known predicaments in leadership. Setting clear expectations and holding the team accountable for their actions will help address these issues,” Jerck Reny Uy, a Red Cross Youth Council member, shared his sentiments about the muddles of leadership and how it should be directed.

He believes that aspirants should assess themselves to ensure that they truly are qualified for the position and the duties that go along with it, or else they would be viewed as a burden to the student body.

On the Fence

Defining leadership prompts the quelling of numerous leadership fallacies and stereotypes. Countering these assumptions might enable you to identify the most suitable leaders that would best represent your stance.

Down memory lane, we thought a good leader should be charismatic, academically inclined—the cream of the crop. While these qualities stand a good stead, some attributes are overlooked and underplayed.

“We should have leaders that are selfaware and able to continuously improve their skills and knowledge. There is action being implemented on the vision they have.” Uy said.

Builders of a Collective Vision

The incompetent dashes slowly into the kettle of gold. On the other hand, a leader ceases to instill greatness, for the eminence is ingrained already in their hearts.

“They must listen to the voices of everyone, not only the majority but also the minority. They won’t just run for popularity, power, or pandagdag credentials sa CV. Leaders should have a strong voice, powerful enough to persuade and speak for the people,” Rishna Joy Maglinao, a secondyear BSA student, shared.

Mart Medina, a second-year block secretary, mentioned how each leader must respond to brickbats and denunciations. “They are not just someone who tells other people what to do, but a person who shows how to do it. Leaders should respond to criticisms openly by accepting them and working on them to improve their leadership skills.”

Mikyla Ussher, a third-year BSA student and a Director for Sponsorships of the UST Central Student Council, mentioned that empathy, initiative, and commitment to serve should be the pivot of student leadership.

“We lead not only because they think our abilities can help them but also because they believe we can represent them. Empathy and initiative are just plans of action, while service is the act,” Ussher replied.

Indeed, leadership is a voyage of discovering, finessing, and integrating a myriad of vital competencies. As stated by Oprah Winfrey, “Casting a ballot isn’t just something you do for yourself. It’s for our collective future.” Now is the time to exercise our right to vote; The decisions we make and the voices we amplify has a direct impact not only on our behalf but also on the whole community.