Gullas College of Medicine Inc. hosted the YSEALI LEADS Summit 2024, with the theme, “Leading through Effective Approaches and Dynamic Strategies,” from December 6th to 8th, 2024. The event aimed to bring together young leaders from Regions 6, 7, and 8 to foster collaboration and promote the ideals of the YSEALI program. The event was graced by the US Embassy, headed by Mr George Mesthos, Deputy Director for Public Affairs.

GCM, as the venue partner for the summit, provided a fitting setting for this gathering of talented individuals. The GCM Auditorium served as the main location for the event, where participants gathered to engage in a series of activities and discussions centered around leadership, community development, and championing sustainable development goals.

One of the key highlights of the YSEALI LEADS Summit 2024 was the inspirational and powerful welcoming speech of Dr. David K. Pillai, the Chief Executive Consultant of GCM, wherein young people were challenged and motivated to take their leadership purpose to the next level. “Never give up, because your sacrifices will bring you success,” said Dr Pillai.

The participants also witnessed the active involvement of the US Embassy in the Philippines by bringing wealth of experience and knowledge through facilitation of funding and resources and recognizing the importance of empowering young leaders in the region. The summit also features dedicated networking sessions, allowing participants to connect with like-minded individuals, establish collaborations, and build a strong network of changemakers. These interactions will foster a sense of community and encourage cross-border collaborations for greater impact.

A significant milestone during the summit is the pitching of their projects and ideas aimed at addressing pressing regional issues. This platform allowed young leaders to showcase their innovative solutions and receive valuable feedback from their peers and esteemed guests. The summit also featured notable speakers and guests who shared their expertise and insights with the participants. These influential individuals provided guidance and inspiration, encouraging the young leaders to continue making a positive impact in their respective communities. Throughout the event, successful YSEALI alumni have shared their stories of triumph, showcasing the potential impact young leaders can have on society. These success stories will serve as beacons of hope, reminding participants of their own capacity to make a difference.

The summit engages participants from the Sangguniang Kabataan (SK), the youth council of the Philippines. This involvement of SK participants will provide a unique intergenerational exchange of ideas and perspectives, further enriching the overall experience of the summit. During the summit, SK Federation Presidents of different provinces forged a partnership with Gullas College of Medicine headed by Dr. Felisse Marianne Z. San Juan, Chief Internationalization and Strategic Communications Officer, and entered into a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) for the full Medical Scholarship Program offered by the latter. The full medical scholarship will enable applicants from various fields to pursue their academic aspirations in the medical field, contributing to the enhancement of healthcare in the country. The full medical scholarship program not only covers tuition fees but also provides comprehensive support, including the allowances for books, accommodation, and living expenses. It ensures that students can fully focus on their studies and take advantage of the world class educational resources available at GCM.