CHAMPIONING BEYOND BORDERS

Written by:

JCI Mem. Charis I. Gutierrez 2020 President, JCI Manilena

JCI Manilena’s theme for 2020 is “Growing Beyond at 40.” I am honored and at the same time challenged to be entrusted to lead a group of empowered women where we also celebrated the chapter’s 40th anniversary. We envisioned 2020 with programs that will enable members to grow individually and for these programs to transcend to sustainable projects for the community.

Together with my BOD, we jump started the year in full force. Just when we all thought we figured it all out, the challenge began. Taal Volcano erupted and not long after, the COVID-19 pandemic forced all of us to be on lockdown.

A new normal brings hope, as adapting poses new challenges. While we were constrained to shelve our original plans, the innate creativity of a true JCI in each of us refuses to wither in the midst of pandemic. The role of JCI to the community is more meaningful than ever. JCI Manilena has activated more than 50 Oplan Kaagapay projects whereby members cooked meals, made face shields, created learning videos for children, pro-actively raised significant funds; and extended help to the front liners, people who lost their jobs, victims of fire and typhoon, Hydrocephalus children and a lot more. We were also able to raise worth Php 1.3 Million in donations for those affected by the recent Typhoon Ulysses.

JCI Manilena did not only continue its flagship community projects, but also ensured training for self and mental growth of its members. We had 9 online GMMS with more than 30 fun and engaging trainings. The chapter boosted participation and growth in membership. No pandemic can also stop us from celebrating our Mardi Gras themed 40th Anniversary online. Members were able to celebrate together in our colorful dresses with masks and shared a virtual toast. To top our year off, JCI Manilena was able to win 6 Titan Awards during the Metro Area Conference.

I am happy that I accepted the challenge of being the 2020 president. With this, I grew beyond as a person and experienced so many new things that I could only imagine before. It may not be a normal year as a president, but I hope I was able to give justice and was able to represent JCI Manilena well. Indeed, one year to lead is a lifetime achievement. Our JCI values will be permanently carved in my heart to have “Faith in God” and “Service to humanity is the best work of life”.