Meet Jovelyn Flores, an SK Kagawad in Barangay Cabugao, New Lucena, who embodies the spirit of resilience and growth. As a young mother, a student, and a leader, Jovelyn has found herself juggling more than most could imagine. Yet, her commitment to her community, her family, and her education has made her a true inspiration to those around her.

Being a mom and a student is no easy feat, especially for someone who also serves as a youth leader in her barangay. “It’s a big challenge,” Jovelyn admits with a laugh. “But I know that if I can handle this, I can handle anything.” The balance between motherhood, school, and her duties as an SK Kagawad can sometimes feel overwhelming. But it’s in these moments that Jovelyn has learned the value of patience, perseverance, and most importantly, trust.

IPAT-SIAD: Laying the Foundation for Leadership

When Jovelyn first became an SK Kagawad, she wasn’t sure where to begin. She knew she wanted to help her community, especially the youth in Barangay Cabugao, but the path wasn’t always clear. That’s when IPAT-SIAD came into the picture, providing the guidance she needed to start making a difference.

“IPAT-SIAD gave me hope,” Jovelyn reflects. The skills training, leadership workshops, and capacitation seminars provided by the program laid the foundation for her leadership style. “Before, I didn’t know where to start, but these trainings gave me the tools I needed to step up as a leader.”

Through the capacitation activities, Jovelyn was able to help address the needs of the youth sector in Barangay Cabugao. Whether it was organizing events, spearheading youth projects, or simply being a role model, Jovelyn realized the true potential of what she could accomplish—both for herself and her community.

The Power of Inner Conditioning: Breathe In, Breathe Out

But perhaps the most transformative part of her journey has been the Inner Conditioning Workshop (ICW). The ICW didn’t just help Jovelyn become a better leader—it helped her become a stronger, more resilient person.

“Stress? Breathe in, breathe out, and let it pass,” Jovelyn says with a calm smile. It’s a mantra she uses to stay grounded, no matter how many obstacles life throws her way. Through ICW, Jovelyn learned the power of heart breathing, a technique that helps her manage stress and tackle life’s challenges with grace. It’s a simple practice that has made a world of difference in her daily life.

“I’ve had my fair share of stressful moments,” she admits. “Especially with school transportation—waiting in the rain can be exhausting. But I’ve learned to wait it out and trust that blessings will come.” In her quiet perseverance, Jovelyn has discovered that even the toughest moments can be weathered with patience and faith.

Trusting the Journey and Embracing Leadership

As a mother, a student, and a community leader, Jovelyn has come to understand that leadership is more than just titles and responsibilities—it’s about having the strength to overcome the hurdles that come your way.

“Being an SK Kagawad is about stepping up and being the voice of the youth in our barangay,” she says. “But it’s also about being there for your community, even when the road gets tough.” Jovelyn’s ability to balance her many roles is a testament to her dedication and perseverance. Her leadership, strengthened by the lessons she’s learned through IPAT-SIAD and ICW, continues to grow as she helps shape the future of Barangay Cabugao’s youth.

Her advice to anyone struggling to keep up with life’s demands? “Trust the process. When things get tough, just breathe and trust that the Lord will settle things for you.” In her own life, she has seen how faith, combined with patience and hard work, leads to success.

A Future Full of Possibilities

Jovelyn’s story is a powerful reminder that even in the face of challenges, there is always room for growth. The skills and lessons she’s learned through IPAT-SIAD have not only helped her become a better leader for the youth in her barangay but also a more self-aware and resilient person.

As she continues to lead in Barangay Cabugao, Jovelyn Flores embodies the true spirit of leadership—one grounded in perseverance, kindness, and a deep sense of responsibility to her community. And with each breath she takes, she steps closer to the future she’s helping to build—one filled with hope, strength, and unwavering faith.