SIS hosted the Harvard Model Congress (HMC) Young Global Leaders Program, an interactive program in which students from grades 6-12 learn various skills regarding leadership and communication. The program took place during Thanksgiving break, from Nov. 29 to Dec. 1.
The program began with a warm welcome from the mentor and icebreaker activities, fostering a collaborative environment. The icebreakers began with the students introducing themselves, naming what country they would like to live in, and whether they believe in aliens or not.
Soon after, the workshops on communicative and public speaking skills began. The mentors held group discussions and team-building activities. Among these activities was a debate. There were four groups in total, and one representative from each group would voice their side. This activity emphasized clear messaging amongst team members.
On Day 2, high school and middle school students were separated. The high school students explored leadership styles—analyst and architect, driver, relationship master, and spontaneous motivator—which allowed them to identify their unique strengths. These reflective sessions reinforced key leadership concepts, setting a strong foundation for the days ahead.
“I thought this lesson was very efficient in helping me understand myself and my qualities as a leader better,” Yena Kim (10), program attendee, said. “I didn’t know there were so many different kinds of leaders, and collaborating with these different types broadened my perspective.”
Afterward, the students split into two groups and participated in a small contest to see which group could create a taller paper tower, reaching heights of 50 inches.
On the final day, the students were assessed on the skills they learned throughout their program through a project they had been working on diligently since the start of the program. Attendees created presentations regarding the development of leadership plans and how to become more efficient leaders, then presented their research to parents and peers.
“It was really cool seeing everyone’s presentations after working hard on it,” Yunmi Ishida (9), program participant, said. “I feel the experience really helped us and I could see how everyone improved with their public speaking throughout the time we were there.”
The HMC Young Global Leaders Program was an insightful experience that taught young leaders a deeper understanding of leadership dynamics and communication and offered students of SIS a variety of skills and lessons for the future.
