From September 18-20, 2025, CIITzens ignited their leadership potential during the electrifying Leadership Excellence, Achievement, Diversity, and Service (LEADS) Phase 1 training, a cornerstone of the one-year leadership development and value formation program.
Infused with the event’s inspiring theme, “It Takes a CIITy,” a playful nod to the saying “It takes a village to raise a child,” the event highlighted the vital role of collaboration among students, organizations, administrators, and the larger community in fostering leadership, development, and success beyond individual pursuits.
Organized and facilitated by the Student Affairs Office (SAO), LEADS equipped participants with the foundational, fundamental, and functional knowledge needed to govern student organizations with vision, confidence, and impact.
A Transformative Phase 1 Experience
Over three dynamic days, CIITzens immersed themselves in a series of engaging workshops, thought-provoking discussions, and collaborative activities.
By equipping student leaders with the skills to design and implement sustainable programs, LEADS ensures that their contributions resonate far beyond their time in the program. Whether organizing community-driven events, spearheading creative initiatives, or advocating for student welfare, these CIITzens are now poised to leave a meaningful mark on the CIIT community.
Fostering Collaboration
A standout focus of Phase 1 was empowering CIITzens to collaborate effectively across school organizations. Participants explored practical strategies for coordination, such as synchronizing the events calendar to prevent activity clashes and ensure seamless integration of programs. These hands-on exercises highlighted how unified efforts can amplify impact, streamline operations, and create a harmonious campus environment.
This training serves as invaluable preparation for real-life professional scenarios, where teamwork, conflict resolution, and cross-functional planning are essential for success in dynamic workplaces.
Reflections and Next Steps
As Phase 1 concluded, CIITzens shared reflections on their growth, expressing excitement for the skills they’ve gained and the connections they’ve forged. The bonds formed during these three days will serve as a strong support network as they continue their leadership journey.
Looking ahead, the LEADS program will build on this momentum with future phases, diving deeper into advanced leadership strategies, project management, and community-building initiatives. CIITzens are already buzzing with ideas for innovative programs that will inspire, unite, and empower their peers.
Let’s celebrate our student leaders as they embark on this journey to ignite change, foster unity, and uphold the values that make CIIT truly special.
