06/03/2025
COLUMN | PURPOSE OVER POWER
Diwa Mithi Ampaguey
LEADERSHIP IS NOT A CROWN, SO WHY CHASE IT?
Some people believe that winning an election is the ultimate goal. Some say that they can only lead once they gain a position. But is leadership just about holding a title? Does a position automatically make someone capable, responsible, or deserving?
Throughout my years as a student, I have tackled various types of leadership. Iโve seen different leadership styles, worked with different kinds of leaders, and even had opportunities to step up. But I have to admitโinstead of desiring to lead, I became consumed by the idea of the position. The idea of being called a โleaderโ seemed more important than the actual responsibility that came with it.
However, over the years of being thirsty for the title, Iโve come to the realization that hit me harder than any election result. Being a leader is not about the power you hold, but the change you create. Itโs not about being on top, giving commands, or gaining recognition. Rather, it is about serving, inspiring, and making an impact, no matter how small. But if thatโs the case, am I even worthy of this position? Are there others more deserving of my role? Leadership is not about being the loudest voice in the room, nor is it about proving that I am the best choice. Why speak for the voiceless when you can empower them to speak for themselves? True leadership is about listening, understanding, and making sure that everyoneโs voices are heard, even if they are not my own.
In SSLG, the real challenge begins after the election. Anyone can make promises, but only a true leader turns them into action. A leader must listen, take initiative, and stand firm in the face of challenges. Itโs about making decisions not for personal benefit, but for the good of the student body.
So, if a title doesnโt define leadership, what does? Can someone still be a leader without an official position? The answer is yes. Leadership is about influence, action, and purpose. Some of the greatest changemakers in history led movements without any official authorityโ they led simply because they had a vision and the courage to act on it. And at the end of the day, a title means nothing without effort. Winning an election doesnโt make someone a leader, their actions do. Leadership is not about being served, but about serving others. So I ask myself, โAm I leading because of the title, or because of the difference I can make?โ #
Layout | Janelle S. Jaravata