Cultivating tomorrow's leaders

 "Leadership is a way of being, which can be lived by everyone no matter his or her place in society or in any given organization." Alexander Havard, the visionary behind the Virtues Leadership System, champions this belief, asserting that leadership is not contingent upon one's position but a product of deliberate cultivation of character and relentless pursuit of excellence. Through his globally recognized work via books and speaking engagements, Havard instills the idea that leaders are not born but made through the practice of virtues such as humility, magnanimity, prudence, and courage. 

Havard's upcoming address at the Family Life Congress and New Technologies in Cebu, hosted by the International Federation for Family Development (https://iffd.org/iffd-congress-2024/), resonates significantly. Scheduled for February 24-25, he will shed light on how individuals can transform inherent temperaments into virtuous characters in the Information Age.

The presence of a virtuous leadership proponent within a family congress underscores two critical points. Firstly, leadership is paramount within the family. Just as leaders within organizations must understand their team members, family leaders must intimately know each member's unique talents, temperament, interests, and vulnerabilities. They ought to foster an environment where achievements are celebrated, missteps are corrected with compassion and understanding, and conflicts are resolved with empathy. However, statistics from a 2022 study by the University of the Philippines Population Institute reveal a stark reality:  one in every three Filipino youth grows up without both parents. This reality poses a significant challenge to effective familial leadership. In such cases, guardians must step forward to provide nourishment, direction, security, and inspiration for the children's well-being.

Secondly, the family has a pivotal role in shaping future leaders. Influential leaders often develop their foundational virtues within the family. Children learn essential life skills through interactions with their immediate family members. They glean goal-setting from parents who work hard to make a living and offer advice on life's challenges. They develop empathy through receiving warmth from those closest to them and by sincerely expressing the magic words, "Please, Sorry, and Thank you." They imbibe solidarity through being entrusted with responsibilities, waiting for the opportune time to purchase a need or enjoy a privilege, coming home for family dinners, and participating in family gatherings.

The promotion and preservation of family values is vital for societal well-being. This idea is stressed by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), which spearheads the annual celebration of National Family Week. In a world marked by increasing migration and separation, fostering familial bonds becomes more crucial.  

Notably, advertisements from various companies serve as poignant reminders of the enduring power of familial love and guidance. For instance, Safeguard's "Pabaon sa Buhay" tells the story of Norman King, illustrating a mother's strength in helping her son embrace his identity as an Aeta, bravely resist ridicule, and focus on what truly matters. Despite misunderstandings, his mother's unwavering love and counsel keep him grounded. Additionally, Oreo's "playtime" advertisement showcases the joy shared among the mother, daughter, and involved father amidst his busy schedule. It emphasizes the collaborative effort of family members to foster bonds and enjoyment.

Similarly, Jollibee's "Kahera" features a female crew receiving constant corrections from a demanding customer who is revealed to be her caring grandmother. It demonstrates the balance of discipline and affection aimed at a grandchild's success. Furthermore, Lucky Me's "The Most Disturbing Dinner" and "HapagUsapan" commercials remind parents to engage in positive and enriching conversations during family meals. It spotlights family meals as occasions to address children's concerns, communicate perspectives, and strengthen relationships.   Lastly, Mcdonald's "Kami Naman, Ma" highlights gratitude and care for a senior mother. It emphasizes the lasting impact of a parent's kindness and the reciprocal nature of generosity within families.  

Essentially, instilling virtues within a family and fostering strong family values lay the foundation for nurturing future leaders. Both public and private entities can contribute to this endeavor, thereby shaping a generation of leaders characterized by integrity, empathy, and steadfast dedication to the common good.