On September 12, 2024, in Singkwenta Meal, Santa. Barbara, eight members of the Civil Society Organization (CSO) came together for an engaging and productive CIT (Community Innovation Team) meeting. While the target was 15 participants, the smaller group allowed for deeper discussions and candid sharing, particularly regarding the recent inner conditioning workshop in Bulacan. As Sir Gideon Palmejar kicked off the meeting by asking participants to share their most significant learnings, the tone was set for a gathering focused on growth, leadership, and sustainability.

Reflecting on Bulacan’s Inner Conditioning Workshop

As the members shared their experiences, it became clear that the inner conditioning workshop in Bulacan had left a profound impact. The participants described the workshop as transformative, offering them valuable insights into self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and the role of leaders in fostering positive change. It was not just about learning new concepts but about understanding how to apply them to their communities and personal growth.

One participant remarked, “The workshop taught us that leadership isn’t just about making decisions—it’s about being emotionally present and connected with those we lead.” This emphasis on inner transformation as a foundation for leadership was a running theme throughout the meeting.

Agenda 1: CSO Assessment—Collaboration for Progress

The main agenda focused on the upcoming CSO assessment at the municipal level, which had already garnered 204 confirmed attendees. Ma’am Ethel Sucilla, with her usual energy and precision, explained the logistics of splitting the assessment into batches, starting with 45 participants on September 18. This segmentation was necessary to ensure more focused engagement from the barangays.

The group also discussed how to involve key stakeholders, particularly the local government unit (LGU) and department heads. Sir Gideon and Ma’am Anne took the lead in strategizing how to effectively collaborate with these agencies, particularly for projects identified by civil society. They outlined a plan for different sectors to handle specific issues—whether related to agriculture, livelihood, or women’s rights—and presented the idea of forwarding unresolved issues to higher government levels for additional support.

Agenda 2: The Search for a New Secretary

Next on the agenda was the search for a new CSO secretary, as the current secretary’s busy schedule required them to step down. While various members were considered for the role, many found it challenging to commit due to their responsibilities. The CSO is still open to suggestions, emphasizing the importance of finding someone dedicated to this critical position.

Agenda 3: Structuring the Organization for Sustainability

Perhaps the most significant topic was the discussion of the CSO’s structure and long-term sustainability. The group explored the idea of a multi-sectoral organization with a singular focus: overseeing sustainable project development. This vision aimed to not only ensure the survival of the organization but also to empower its members through skills training, education, and project funding.

Ma’am Ethel eloquently shared the group’s long-term goal: “Our aim is to create an umbrella organization that not only represents all sectors but also ensures that every member thrives through continuous learning and project implementation.” This vision, backed by the support of IPAT-SIAD and Lifebank, promised a future where the organization’s members could become pillars of their communities.

The proposed structure included utilizing media outlets like radio stations to spread awareness of the CIT’s mission, recruiting more members, and creating a presence during town events such as Kahilwayan. A suggestion was made to set up an information booth with “giveaways” to attract more interest from the public.

Agreements: Strengthening the Future

The meeting concluded with several key agreements. A general assembly for all organizations in Santa Barbara was set for November 7 and 20, 2024, at IMP Hall, where the organizational structure would be formalized. Representatives from various sectors, including women’s groups, solo parents, senior citizens, farmers, and youth organizations, would be invited to participate.

Looking to the future, the CIT meeting also identified December as the timeline for selecting Batch 2 participants for the next Inner Conditioning Workshop, ensuring a steady flow of leadership development within the community.

Final Thoughts: The Power of Sustainable Leadership

As the meeting wrapped up at 3:39 PM, it was clear that the CIT and CSO members were not just talking about leadership—they were living it. By focusing on collaboration, sustainability, and continuous learning, the group laid the groundwork for a future where civil society could work hand-in-hand with local and national leaders to create lasting change.

With the CIT meetings set to continue every first Friday of the month, the future looks bright for Santa Barbara’s civil society. The journey may be long, but with leaders who are committed to both personal growth and community impact, success seems inevitable.