– ‘iLead’ youth leadership programme to promote, nurture well-rounded students

THE Lead to Influence Leadership Foundation (L2ILF), spearheaded by Dr. Shanti Persaud, unveiled the transformative iLead Youth Leadership Development Programme on Wednesday at Fraser’s Educational Institute, in Fort Wellington, East Berbice-Corentyne.

This initiative, commencing with 125 students from Grades seven to nine and 20 teachers in the inaugural phase, titled iChoose, seeks to instill values and cultivate well-rounded individuals capable of leading in society.

The iLead Programme, a brainchild of the Maxwell Leadership Foundation inspired by Dr. John C. Maxwell’s leadership principles, was launched with a demonstration of a lesson by Dr. Shanti Persaud herself.

The visionary leader engaged with students during the programme’s inauguration at Fraser’s Educational Institute, emphasising the significance of values-based teachings for effective leadership.

Dr. Shanti Persaud, in her address to students, passionately encouraged them to seize the opportunities presented by the iLead Programme. “Every choice you make defines you. You are in control of your life and can achieve anything you set your mind to,” she declared.

Drawing on John Maxwell’s wisdom, she underscored that every student is a leader, as leadership is fundamentally about influence.

Mr. Marlon Fraser, the Director of Fraser’s Educational Institute, expressed gratitude to the Lead to Influence Leadership Foundation for selecting his school for programme implementation.

He acknowledged the weight of the material and emphasised the value it would bring to students. Mr. Fraser thanked the Foundation for offering the programme for free and ensuring each student had their own book at every level.

Fraser’s Educational Institute becomes the second school to facilitate the iLead Programme, scheduled to commence next week.

The programme’s earlier launch in April 2023 at Camille’s Academy (the pilot school) saw 327 students completing the first level, iChoose. Additionally, 32 teachers completed the Adult Transformation Tables through the Foundation, progressing to the next level, iDo.

The iLead Programme, comprising three levels – iChoose, iDo, and iLead – extends its benefits beyond students to teachers at both participating schools. This includes the Adult values table, known as the Transformation Table.

One of the unique features of the iLead Programme is its student-led approach, fostering self-confidence, trust, and vulnerability among peers. This, in turn, contributes to improved interpersonal relationships among students and holds the promise of a transformed society.

In her closing remarks, Dr. Shanti Persaud encouraged students not to fear vulnerability, highlighting the programme’s aim to create a “safe space” for the youth. She emphasised the concept of servant leadership, encouraging students to live a life of serving and valuing others.

For those looking to contribute to the transformation of schools through the iLead Programme, partnership opportunities with L2ILF are available. Interested individuals can visit l2if.org or contact the Foundation at (592) 621-0440 to learn more about this transformative initiative.