Leadership 11 – Final EduBlog

My first year in Leadership 11 has been one of immense personal growth. I’ve come to understand what it truly means to be cooperative, adaptable, and willing to compromise, all while learning to take initiative without waiting for permission. I didn’t get into the program when I first applied in Grade 10. That initial setback, though discouraging, turned out to be a necessary turning point. It gave me the time to mature and enter Grade 11 with a stronger mindset: one that is more open to challenges, responsibility, and growth.

At the start of the year, I envisioned easing into the program, observing others, learning quietly, and eventually assuming leadership roles later on. But I quickly realized Leadership isn’t something you ease into. You have to step up and create your opportunities. During the PT Family Fun Event #1, I naturally took on bigger responsibilities: coordinating, checking in with team members, and helping things run smoothly. That event became one of the most fulfilling experiences of the year and gave me the confidence to co-lead Grade 9 Day with Alexia soon after.

Of course, not every moment this year came with confidence. There were many times I questioned myself, especially after Grade 9 Day. When it came time to plan Grade 11 Day, I was hesitant to take on another Point Person role. I worried about repeating mistakes or being unable to deliver. But taking that leap again turned out to be one of the most defining experiences of my leadership journey.

Co-leading Grade 11 Day helped me realize that my strengths lie in organization, logistics, and follow-through. While I once believed leadership had to come from bold ideas or creative flair, I learned that my value lies in structure: making sure things happen on time, efficiently, and as planned. I managed our sales team, created shift schedules, coordinated marketing materials, and kept our event timeline moving. On the day of the event, I responded to last-minute problems with calm and focus, helping reassemble decorations and guiding the setup. I wasn’t the one designing games or themes, but I was the one who ensured the ideas we chose came to life. That realization reshaped how I see myself as a leader and gave me confidence in my leadership style.

Looking back, I’ve built a foundation of skills that I know I’ll carry into next year and beyond. I’ve learned to lead with clarity and resilience. I’ve strengthened my communication and decision-making, especially under pressure. Most importantly, I’ve learned to trust that my contributions matter, even if they’re not always the most visible. I’m excited to return for Leadership 12, where I hope to mentor younger students, take on even greater responsibilities, and continue growing into the kind of leader I never imagined myself becoming at the start of this year.