SEIZING INSPIRATION

The Regional Director of Humanitarian Affairs Asia, Ms. Janice Leong, commenced her address with a heartfelt tribute to the incredible journey of the symposium. She lauded each delegate for their unwavering courage, insatiable curiosity, and steadfast commitment to personal and societal growth. She acknowledged the initial doubts and uncertainties some may have harboured, such as initiating conversations with strangers in a foreign land. However, within the nurturing environment of the symposium, these doubts evolved into inconsequential nuances, overshadowed by the collaborative spirit, abundant positive energy, and shared sense of purpose that defined the symposium.

In a poignant moment, Janice celebrated the incredible acts of kindness and selflessness witnessed on Kindness Day, a testament to the power of collective action in effecting meaningful change. She asserted, “The smiles and gratitude of the local communities we serve will forever be etched in our hearts.”

As the delegates prepared to return to their homelands, Janice acknowledged the diverse tapestry of emotions coursing through their beings. She underscored the importance of preserving their shared vision to craft a better world in this pivotal moment. She stressed, “This is a critical moment, a juncture where the impact of this symposium can either be diluted or magnified. We must seize that inspiration and channel it into tangible action.”

She introduced the concept of PET management – a blueprint for navigating this journey. She explained that priority, Energy, and Time would be their guiding stars.

Janice encouraged each delegate to identify their priorities, filter out distractions, and fix their gaze on what truly matters. She stated, “These priorities are the pillars upon which your impact will be built.” Understanding the ebb and flow of their energy, she implored them to structure their time wisely, advocating for self-care as a means of sustaining their vitality in the long haul. Lastly, she spoke of time itself, advising delegates to invest it sagaciously, dedicating substantial blocks to pursuing their priorities while sidestepping superfluous distractions. She declared, “By aligning our priorities, managing our energy, and optimizing our time, we can become more effective and impactful in pursuing positive change.”

However, Janice was candid about the hurdles to social change. Doubts, challenges, and the occasional pangs of exhaustion might surface. Nevertheless, she left delegates with a profound assurance: they were not alone on this journey. Encouraging them to nurture a support network of like-minded individuals, she emphasized that even in the darkest moments, there would always be those who could offer guidance, solace, and unwavering encouragement.

In closing, Janice expressed her heartfelt gratitude for the unwavering dedication, the fiery passion, and the indomitable commitment exhibited by all delegates throughout the symposium. She said, “You are the change agents our world desperately needs.” As they embarked on their respective paths, she wished them purpose, impact, and a world of endless possibilities. “Let the spirit of USLS ignite a fire within you. A fire that will burn brightly and guide you on your path as global change makers.” The road ahead might not always be smooth, but as Janice proclaimed, it is worth traversing, illuminated by the incandescent hope of a brighter, better world.