Reflections From Student Leadership Conference 2022

Every year, the Coalition has the pleasure of offering to students from member schools in their 11th or 12th grade year the opportunity to attend the Student Leadership Conference (SLC) organized by our strategic partner the Alliance of Girls’ Schools Australasia.

This year, four students from two NCGS member schools (Trinity Hall in Tinton Falls, New Jersey, United States and Our Lady of Tepayac High School in Chicago, Illinois, United States) attended the virtual Student Leadership Conference.

The 2022 conference’s keynote speakers included renowned US author, speaker and leadership development expert Rachel Simmons, as well as 2021 Young Australian of the Year, Isobel Marshall and Eloise Hall, co-founders of Taboo and SLC alumnae.

These are their reflections on their SLC experience.

Faith M., Trinity Hall

I had such an amazing experience at SLC! The conference and its speakers not only inspired me to continue to aspire to be the best leader I can be in my community, but also helped me to redefine what exactly “leadership” means to me. While it’s easy to think “leadership” is merely a higher-up position that one is elected to and the power that that position entails, I’ve learned that it is so much more than that. Leadership is about connection, about influence, as well as vision and the legacy one wishes to leave upon their (in this context) school community following the conclusion of their term. Being a leader doesn’t necessarily mean being perfect, or all-powerful; rather, it connotes the positive effects one can have on those around them when allowed the space and opportunity.

As the Chair of my school’s “Arts Council,” a subdivision of our Student Council, my leadership is imperative to the success of several creative events throughout the school year, such as painting events, concerts, and more. Often, I become so entangled in logistics and making sure that everything is flowing smoothly that I forget to pause and remember what being a leader to my council truly means: As long as my team is having fun and understands that I value each and every one of them as crucial to my own success, I’ve done my job.

A key talking point of one of my conference workshops was this: when given the opportunity to lead, and the power that comes with it, a true leader will build a longer table, not a higher fence. I hope to keep this mantra close to my heart as I finish out what remains of my leadership career at Trinity Hall.

Ariana M., Our Lady of Tepayac High School

I didn’t expect much from the on-demand videos of SLC because I feel that one-on-one communication is much more beneficial. But these videos are truly amazing and I felt like I had the full experience. Attending the student leadership conference was an inspiring opportunity. It made me feel as if I were actually there in Australia, surrounded by all of the wonderful students. The lessons and connections that I made with various speakers and guests was a great learning tool. One in particular being Rachel Simmons, who spoke about the importance of practicing self-compassion. Ms. Simmons taught us that taking risks is okay and how to properly take in positive and negative criticism. She also highlighted that we need to recognize our emotions before starting our day. The things she spoke about will help me in the future. I am going to make sure to practice this advice in my everyday life.

Overall, I sincerely appreciate being invited to participate in the Student Leadership Conference, and I plan on implementing many of the wonderful skills and lessons I learned in my leadership journey. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to participate in this event.

Jacqueline B., Trinity Hall

I can confidently say that I have come away from SLC feeling more confident in not only my leadership capabilities but also myself. Being able to connect with young women who have been through SLC before was inspiring. They held themselves in such a mature and eloquent manner that I strive to imitate in my own life. Hearing from the alumnae only solidified my belief that the women I shared this experience with would go on to achieve great things.

Furthermore the keynote speaker, Rachel Simmons, captured my attention with her knowledge as well as her humor. In absorbing her wisdom, I realized I need to believe in myself the way I believe in my peers. Her discussion on self-compassion was thought provoking, and I left the zoom meeting feeling empowered.

The most important thing I got out of SLC was the relationship I developed with other attendees. The overwhelming support I received from like-minded female leaders, despite the fact that I live in a different hemisphere, was overwhelming. The supportive environment built by the group of girls, who I am proud to now call my friends, gave me the confidence I needed to return to my school environment and continue to push for what I believe in. SLC truly taught me the difference between having a leadership position and being a leader and I hope to embody this value in my actions going forward.

Leslie S., Our Lady of Tepayac High School

Day 1:
What were three amazing things that happened today?

I set goals and hopes for SLC which I thought was very convenient, and different because we are welcoming the new year.
I too did the Fun fact or challenge of “ random photo in your camera roll” and it was one that was from a while ago and I forgot about. The photo was me dozing off and I forgot I had my camera open and without knowing I took a photo of myself.
I got to see where my leadership skills and talents are on a basis of 1-10 with the help of leadership filled questions.

What were some key take-aways from today?

I got to see where my values are on a spectrum of organization and that I can develop more strategies to help with leadership.

What did I discover about my values today?

I discovered that between relationships and vision are my key areas of focusing, and that maybe I should focus on the others too.

Day 2:
What is one thing I can do to build my mental toughness?

Use a planner/ journal to write down key notes to strengthen my memory muscle.

When I need clarity and to care for myself, what are some things I can do?

Ask others and or ask peers. Now as for taking care of myself, I would say treat yourself with rewards such as extra episodes of your favorite show.

What did I discover about my vision as a leader today?

That if I want to step up my leadership skills, much still has to be learned and taught.

Day 3:
What was something that made me smile today?

The way how for Fun Fact or Challenge, we had to dress up as something with the letters “S”, “L” and “C”

What is the legacy I want to leave on my school?

The possibility of relying on one another, and reminding ourselves in times of difficulty that we can still be there and have the opportunity to grow and teach others our skills of leadership.