Bacolod City, Philippines – The Bacolod Philippines Institute of Religion has recently seen significant success with the Launching Leaders program, an initiative to empower young adults with leadership and life skills anchored in faith.

Marc Barredo, the Institute Director for the Philippines Bacolod Mission, oversees this innovative program.

Table of Contents

• Introduction of Launching Leaders
• Reception Among Students
• Complementing Religious Education
• Enrollment Trends
• Student Feedback
• Measuring Success and Impact
• Challenges and Integration
• Contributions of Volunteer Teachers and Student Council
• Notable Success Stories
• Future Plans
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Introduction of Launching Leaders

The Launching Leaders class was introduced to the Bacolod Institute in August 2022. The catalyst for its introduction was a visit by Elder G. Kenneth Lee, who suggested creating a pilot group for the Philippines after a work assignment meeting. Inspired by the success of similar workshops in other countries, Barredo decided to implement the program at both the Bacolod Institute and the Quezon City Institute.

A pivotal Zoom meeting facilitated by Elder Lee introduced Chet Harmer and April Adao to the team, who were instrumental in launching the first Launching Leaders group at Bacolod Institute in 2023.

Reception Among Students

The Launching Leaders class was met with enthusiasm by students. All members of the Institute Student Council, including new members who had served missions or attended Brigham Young University-Hawaii (BYU-H), participated in the course. Each semester, new council members, newly returned missionaries, and other interested students have chosen to enroll in the Launching Leaders class, highlighting its growing popularity.

Complementing Religious Education

The principles taught in the Launching Leaders class are deeply rooted in faith and practicality. They align seamlessly with the Institute’s mission to help young adults become more converted to Jesus Christ by offering a sense of belonging, relevant courses, and better accessibility to educational offerings.

Enrollment Trends

Since its introduction, the Launching Leaders class has seen steady enrollment. The 2022-2023 Term 2 had 15 enrollees, the 2023-2024 Term 1 had 16, and Term 2 had 8 enrollees. The Institute is committed to offering the Launching Leaders course every semester to accommodate interested students.

Student Feedback

Feedback from students who have completed the Launching Leaders class has been overwhelmingly positive. Keith, a participant, emphasized the importance of mentors, stating, “Finding a mentor reminds me of Jesus Christ.

He is the greatest mentor of all and the greatest example.” Christine, another student, highlighted the importance of aligning goals with God’s will, saying, “I trust that His plan is better than my own, and I want to live my life in a way that is pleasing to Him.”

Measuring Success and Impact

Measuring the success and impact of the Launching Leaders class is challenging, but the focus remains on how students live their covenants and serve in their families, church, and community. This holistic approach ensures that the program’s benefits extend beyond the classroom.

Challenges and Integration

The introduction of the Innovating Institute by the Seminaries and Institutes (S&I) before the COVID-19 pandemic allowed directors more flexibility in their offerings. This initiative paved the way for the smooth integration of Launching Leaders into the curriculum. The program has the full support of the Area Director and Region Directors, eliminating significant challenges.

Contributions of Volunteer Teachers and Student Council

Volunteer teachers and student leaders play a crucial role in the success of the Launching Leaders class. They actively promote the program in their classes and wards, particularly to newly returned missionaries, ensuring a steady stream of participants.

Notable Success Stories

Several students who completed the Launching Leaders program are now attending BYU-H. Andrew Quizana, the student council president when Launching Leaders was first introduced in Bacolod, shared that the program’s principles and delivery prepared him well for the rigorous demands of university life. He has made significant progress in his studies, work, and overall life.

Future Plans

Looking ahead, the Bacolod Institute plans to prioritize returned missionaries for the Launching Leaders classes and offer support to those who have attended the My Plan Conference. Additionally, the Institute aims to offer Launching Leaders both in-person and online, catering to young adults, returned missionaries, and those preparing to serve from distant stakes and districts within the area.

The Launching Leaders program at the Bacolod Philippines Institute of Religion continues to empower young adults and foster a generation of faithful, capable leaders.

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