"Leadership is the capacity to influence others through inspiration, generated by a passion, motivated by a vision, birthed by a conviction which is produced by a sense of purpose." - Myles Munroe

In the final weeks of November, a spark of enthusiasm ignited within the youth of our barangay as we gathered to discuss and plan a momentous event — an event that would mark my inaugural activity as the Sangguniang Kabataan Chairperson.

Little did we know that this endeavor, named the MerrySKapade Activity, would not only become a highlight of the year 2023 but also carve its place as one of the most memorable chapters in my leadership journey.

The concept of MerrySKapade took shape during a meeting with the vibrant youth members of our community. With a shared vision and a collective desire to create an engaging and inclusive experience, we set out to organize a week-long festivity for individuals aged 15 to 30.

The lineup was dynamic and aimed to cater to diverse interests, including a one-week basketball league, a two-day Mobile Legends tournament, a chess competition, a parol-making contest emphasizing the use of recycled and indigenous materials, a lively one-night Zumba dance, and a basketball league with an exciting twist.

Eager to take on the challenge and confident in the abilities of our Sangguniang Kabataan officials, I proposed that we, as a team, should spearhead the organization of this event. Each member, armed with unique talents and skills, willingly embraced their roles as committee heads, ensuring the success of our very first community initiative.

Join me as I unfold the narrative of MerrySKapade, a celebration born from the collective spirit of our youth and a testament to the endless possibilities of community engagement.

Opening Day

On December 17, it was the big day – the opening ceremony of MerrySKapade. I found myself at the center stage, taking on the role of the host for the event, while my co-officials were busy handling their respective tasks. The excitement was palpable.

The festivities kicked off with a lively parade featuring our basketball teams, each accompanied by their stunning muses. The muses, all dolled up, added a touch of glamour to the event and even had their own friendly competition. It was a sight to behold.

During the opening ceremony, we revealed the very first basketball team that would grace the court that night. We also took the opportunity to share important instructions and guidelines for the upcoming activities, ensuring everyone was on the same page.

_{BEST IN MUSE}

_{JUDGES FOR THE SEARCH OF BEST IN MUSE}

Game Day

After the thrilling one-week basketball league, the excitement didn't stop there. We dived straight into the action-packed 2-day Mobile Legends tournament. A whopping 8 teams threw their hats into the ring, ready to showcase their gaming prowess. The competition was fierce, and the atmosphere was charged with the spirit of friendly rivalry.

As the battles unfolded, four standout teams emerged, forming the Magic 4. These players became the center of attention, capturing the essence of the Mobile Legends excitement.

Following the virtual battles, it was time to switch gears to a classic game of strategy – chess. The one-day chess tournament drew unexpected talent from our barangay. I, personally, was thrilled to see so many skilled players. Despite my love for chess and the initial desire to join the games, I took on the role of arbiter this time. It was a bittersweet moment, as I couldn't play, but I couldn't help but express my eagerness to challenge these players to a match in the future. Chess enthusiasts, watch out, because we've got some serious contenders in our barangay! 🤪♟️

For the Parol Making Contest, the creativity of our youth truly shone through, with three fantastic groups submitting their masterpieces. Witnessing these amazing creations brought forth a wave of emotions, showcasing the talent and dedication of the youth in our barangay. In just one week, they crafted beautiful parols that lit up our community with festive spirit.

_{FYI, A parol is a festive Christmas lantern traditionally used for decoration during the holiday season. Resembling a star, the parol symbolizes the guiding light of the Christmas season. Typically adorned with vibrant colors and intricate designs, parols are hung in homes and public spaces, adding a warm and celebratory atmosphere to the surroundings. This Filipino Christmas tradition brings joy and illumination, embodying the spirit of togetherness and festivity during this special time of the year.}

Culmination Day

On December 23, the festivities continued with the Zumba dance and a basketball league with a delightful twist. The Zumba dance attracted a diverse crowd, with no age limit, making it a night of shared joy and laughter. Leading the Zumba dance was a personal delight for me, backed up by the enthusiastic support of my co-officials.

Now, for the twist in the basketball league – players donned dresses and girly clothes, adding an unexpected and entertaining element to the games. While I regret not capturing every moment in pictures, the laughter and enjoyment we shared that night were unforgettable.

The event concluded with the acknowledgment and prizes for the winners, capping off a week filled with fun, unity, and unforgettable moments.
Here are the pictures below:

Embarking on the journey to organize the MerrySKapade Activity, the road was not devoid of challenges. As the Sangguniang Kabataan Chairperson, I encountered obstacles and uncertainties along the way. It was during these moments that I sought solace in prayer, turning to a higher power for guidance and strength.

In the midst of uncertainties, the unwavering promise of divine guidance became a beacon of hope. Through fervent prayers, I found reassurance that the challenges we faced were not insurmountable. True to His promise, God's guidance became palpable, leading us through the intricacies of planning and organizing the event.

The struggles we encountered behind the scenes became stepping stones toward a successful reality. It was a testament to the power of faith and determination, transforming our aspirations into tangible outcomes. With each challenge overcome, we witnessed the manifestation of divine guidance, turning obstacles into opportunities and uncertainties into triumphs.

This journey, though challenging, became a testament to the transformative power of faith, resilience, and the collective effort of the community. It reinforced the belief that with unwavering commitment and a reliance on divine guidance, any endeavor can be transformed into a successful reality.

My deepest gratitude goes out to everyone who supported us, especially in the financial aspect. To the youth who contributed, big or small, their efforts did not go unnoticed.

That's for today, guys. Thank you for reading. Until next time, stay safe, healthy, and hydrated!💧✨💙

Photo Credits: Jeanalou C. Sala