With a powerful blend of purpose, passion, and Paulinian spirit, five student leaders from the Basic Education Department of St. Paul University Dumaguete (SPUD) raised the Philippine flag high as they bagged the Bronze Award at the prestigious Asian Student Leadership Conference (ASLC) 2025 held from July 30 to August 3 in Singapore.

The delegation—Sabrina Faith S. Lariosa, Ariane Daniella A. Baco, Maeda Faith B. Albina, Chailynne Therese M. Stallings, and Ezra Nathaniel S. Lariosa—stood out among young changemakers across Asia for their outstanding performance, innovative project, and collaborative leadership. The team was coached and mentored by Ms. Jerlyn V. Manila, the Junior High School Student Activity Team Leader.

Rooted in service, empathy, and sustainability, their project titled “Wave Off Waste” captured the hearts and minds of both judges and fellow delegates. What began as a school-based initiative evolved into a compelling advocacy inspired by immersive learning experiences at Dignity Kitchen, a social enterprise empowering persons with disabilities and the marginalized, and the Dragon Boat Association Singapore, which champions inclusivity, resilience, and teamwork.

The students shared how the stories of struggle and strength they encountered during these visits ignited a deeper sense of responsibility in them—not just to help, but to uplift. “Wave Off Waste” addresses the pressing issues of plastic pollution, marine degradation, and the vulnerability of fisherfolk communities in the Philippines. But more than just environmental awareness, the project advocates for sustainable livelihood programs that provide long-term dignity—not dependency—for coastal communities.

“Our goal was never just to clean the seas,” shared team member Sabrina Lariosa. “It was to create waves of change—where helping becomes empowering, and where advocacy meets action.”

Held annually, the ASLC is a premier leadership platform that gathers student leaders from different Asian countries to develop intercultural competencies, engage in social innovation, and collaborate on solutions to real-world challenges. This year’s theme, “Leading with Purpose in a Diverse World,” served as a fitting backdrop for SPUD’s transformative journey.

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