DBJSMNHS and ZNHS: Investing in Youth Leadership.

In July 2017, two high schools in Zarraga—Don Benjamin Jalandoni Sr. Memorial National High School (DBJSMNHS) and Zarraga National High School (ZNHS)—took a bold step in shaping the future of their student leaders. Through their Capability Building and Leadership Training sessions, these schools empowered their student leaders with the skills, knowledge, and confidence needed to tackle leadership challenges head-on. It was more than just a series of workshops—it was a transformational experience that laid the foundation for a new wave of responsible, confident, and dynamic student leaders.

DBJSMNHS: Learning by Doing

The DBJSMNHS workshop set the tone for a month of leadership excellence. Students immersed themselves in a variety of interactive sessions that covered everything from effective communication to conflict resolution and strategic decision-making. But the highlight? The practical session on minute-taking—where students demonstrated their note-taking skills through role-playing exercises, putting theory into practice and turning a seemingly mundane task into an engaging challenge.

The workshops were designed to encourage collaboration, with a focus on building a positive, open atmosphere where everyone felt comfortable learning. The students weren’t just passive listeners—they were active participants who engaged with one another, shared ideas and learned from each other’s experiences. This collaborative spirit turned the workshops into a dynamic learning experience, one that gave students the tools they needed to lead with confidence and empathy.

ZNHS: Recognizing Commitment and Growth

After the success at DBJSMNHS, the momentum continued at ZNHS, where the focus shifted to recognizing the commitment and growth of student leaders. Certificates were awarded to those who had shown dedication to both personal and collective development—a well-deserved acknowledgment of their hard work and active participation in the sessions.

Just like their peers at DBJSMNHS, ZNHS student leaders engaged in role-playing exercises that allowed them to apply the theories they had learned in real-life situations. These practical sessions gave them a chance to navigate leadership challenges, refine their decision-making skills, and build the confidence to lead effectively within their school environments.

Learning Through Action: The Power of Role-Playing

A key feature of both workshops was the hands-on, experiential learning approach. Student leaders didn’t just sit back and listen—they took charge, facilitated discussions, and conducted mock meetings through role-playing. This interactive learning model helped students understand the challenges they would face as leaders, while also empowering them to take ownership of their actions and decisions. The ability to practice in a safe, supportive environment gave them the confidence to handle leadership responsibilities both in school and beyond.

The Bigger Picture: Shaping Future Leaders

The Capability Building and Leadership Training at DBJSMNHS and ZNHS weren’t just about giving students a certificate or teaching them how to run a meeting. It was about creating a lasting impact that would influence not just their school life, but also their roles as leaders in their communities. The workshops empowered these young minds with the tools to become effective, responsible leaders who can inspire and make a difference in the world around them.

In conclusion, these leadership workshops proved that investing in student leaders is an investment in the future—one where these young individuals can contribute to shaping their schools, communities, and society at large. With newly honed skills in communication, conflict resolution, and strategic thinking, the leaders of DBJSMNHS and ZNHS are now better equipped to face the challenges of tomorrow, driving positive change wherever they go.