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MSU-IIT’s Psychology Society conducts two-day Leadership and Peer Support Development Workshop

by Khaamela Kate A. Narvaez | Oct 21 2025

The Psychology Society of the Mindanao State University–Iligan Institute of Technology (MSU-IIT) successfully conducted the second implementation of its pioneering developmental program through a two-day workshop titled “Project Peer: Be the Beacon of the Present!” on October 13–14, 2025, at the University Gymnasium. 

Held in collaboration with the Initiatives of Change (IofC) organization– an international organization committed to transforming societies through inner change and ethical leadership. Led by Yeon Yuk Jeong, Shoufeng Hsu, Aparna Khatri, Wadia Khoury, and Mayur Milan, alongside local facilitators Aries Gamboa, Star Parulan-Elmedulan, Aubrey Elmedulan, Roy H. Tan, and Genesis C. Dayao, the sessions blended global insights with locally grounded discussions, creating a learning environment that was both intimate and impactful.

Facilitated by the IofC, the event continued the legacy of last year’s “Project Peer: If Not Me, Who? If Not Now, When?”, advancing the society’s commitment to nurturing empathy and integrity in student leadership and peer support. This year’s workshop welcomed participants not only from MSU-IIT but also from MSU–Marawi, MSU-Maguindanao, and St. Michael’s College of Iligan, Inc., a testament to how Project Peer continues to inspire connection and collaboration of students across institutions.

The two-day workshop was organized around four core themes: ethical leadership, trust building, conflict resolution, and peace circle facilitation. Focusing on ethical leadership and the practice of building trust, the first day highlighted the role of integrity in fostering trustworthy and value-driven relationships. The second day delved into conflict resolution and peace circle facilitation, encouraging participants to apply empathy and reflective listening in navigating conflicts constructively. Ultimately, the workshop highlighted that true leadership and peer support are rooted in integrity, interpersonal awareness, and the commitment to create peace within and beyond oneself.

The partnership between the Psychology Society and IofC dates back to the project’s first launch, where both groups found common ground in their shared commitment to self-awareness, empathy, and ethical leadership. IofC’s unique approach — focusing on personal transformation as the root of social change — distinguishes it from traditional leadership programs. This collaboration enabled students to experience a leadership framework that combines emotional insight with practical application.

Behind the success of Project Peer: Be the Beacon of the Present! were the continued support of the Office of the Chancellor, the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Strategic Initiatives, the Office of the Vice Chancellor for International Affairs, the Office of the Student Services, the University Graduate Dormitory, and the College of Arts and Social Sciences, alongside the Psychology Department, and other partner institutions.

In their reflections, participants spoke of empathy, gratitude, and the power of character development as the first step toward a more compassionate society. By continuing the legacy of Project Peer, the MSU-IIT Psychology Society reaffirmed its mission to nurture leaders whose compassion and integrity serve as a catalyst for a meaningful transformation.

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