This year’s APPEND Leadership Conference (ALC), hosted by KMBI, held a record number of attendees, bringing more than 1,300 participants at the SMX Lanang, Davao City last April 19-20, 2018.
The two-day assembly, themed “Past Meets Future”, took a glimpse back into the history of APPEND, its humble beginnings, and how far it has gone about three decades later.
APPEND Chairman, Mr. Edgardo F. Garcia, officially commenced the ceremonies.
The past, the present, and the future
Guest pastor Mr. Jebo Banzuelo led the exhortation focused on Hebrews 12:1-2 which stressed the importance of recognizing the men and women who have served, and even continue to serve, as pillars of the organization.
The series of plenary talks that followed encompassed APPEND’s past, present, and future. This was led by Alalay Sa Kaunlaran, Inc. (ASKI) Executive Director, Mr. Rolando B. Victoria; APPEND President & CEO Ms. Virginia P. Juan; and APPEND Chairman Mr. Edgardo F. Garcia.
The talks signified (1) the need to trace the milestones of APPEND and the key lessons learned along the way; (2) the need to stay relevant amidst the advent of technology and emerging issues related to social entrepreneurship and development; and (3) the desire to keep going forward and covering new grounds.
On the other hand, Dr. Sohl de Guia examined behavioral differences between generations and how the new ones (Millennials) can greatly impact the course of the organization.
KMBI’s Board of Trustees welcomed the guests with the song “Find Us Faithful”.
The afternoon was composed of breakout sessions, facilitated by Pastor Jebo Banzuelo, Dr. Sohl de Guia, Dr. Jasmin Jamora, and Mr. Jorge Azurin.
Disney fun
Three whimsical performances illuminated the evening, with ASKI snagging the top prize with their rendition of “Beauty and the Beast”. Afterwards, the twelve tribes convened for an on-the-spot performance anchored on the theme “Past Meets Future”.
Wisdom in Unity, Mentorship, and Innovation
The second day of the ALC was graced by Pastor Jeff Elizcupides. He urged the participants to move in unity and in one spirit as APPEND fulfills its imperative to run the race. Also present in the event was Coach Ms. May Soriano, who enumerated the concepts of coaching and mentoring in the 21st century.
Motivational speaker, Ferdinand “Chinkee” Tan gave an inspiring talk to the participants, encouraging them to embrace change and innovation while keeping track of the organization’s core values.
In the afternoon’s breakout sessions, speakers included Ms. Jane Manucdoc from ASKI; Mr. Joel Jacobo from PALMFSI; Mr. Angelo Solarte from TSKI; Ms. Hazel Christine Bayaca & Mr. Timothy John Pasicolan from KDFI; Pastor Jeff Eliscupidez, Mr. Chinkee Tan, and Atty. Raineer Chu.
Honoring the foundation
One of the programs that enables APPEND to provide free education to deserving but underprivileged students is the Knowledge for Inspiring Leadership, Opportunities and Spirituality (KILOS) scholarship program, funded by Gordon V. and Helen C. Smith Foundation.
The KILOS scholars presented their tribute to the Smiths through expressive song and dance numbers. One of the scholars, Mr. Jonash Reyes, who graduated summa cum laude from the Far Eastern University, uttered his gratitude through a heartfelt testimony.
The ALC was capped off by prayers extended by Mr. Raffy & Honey Grace Catalan, Ms. Gloria P. Jimenez, and Bishop Jose Dalino.
The APPEND Leadership Conference is an expression of the network’s commitment to strengthen the technical competence, leadership, and spiritual health of its partner organizations.