Building Future Leaders: Highlights from Our Family Day and Leadership Camp at Caliraya Resort

Education goes beyond textbooks and classrooms. At Global Leaders International School (GLIS), this belief came alive during our recent Family Day and Leadership Camp at the scenic Caliraya Resort. This event brought together students, parents, and faculty for a day filled with learning, laughter, and community spirit under the guidance of our new Director, Mr. Joseph Costello.

The day was more than just fun; it was a chance to build stronger connections and develop leadership skills in a natural, engaging setting. Here’s a closer look at what made this event memorable and meaningful for everyone involved.

Leadership Through Storytelling

One of the most unique aspects of the camp was the leadership training led by Director Joseph Costello. Instead of traditional lectures, he used storytelling to teach important leadership qualities like communication and resilience. This approach made complex ideas easy to understand and relate to for students of all ages.

The storytelling workshops were interactive, encouraging students to participate and share their own experiences. This method helped students see leadership as something personal and achievable, not just a set of rules to follow.

A parent of a 3rd grader, shared her thoughts:

"His storytelling approach made the concepts easy to understand. Above all, the fact that the children were able to learn while having so much fun made the lessons even more meaningful and lasting."

This approach showed how stories can connect people and inspire growth, making leadership lessons stick long after the camp ended.

Fun, Games, and Resilience

The camp was packed with activities designed to build teamwork and resilience. From team-building exercises to outdoor games, the energy was high throughout the day. Even when an unexpected rain shower arrived, it didn’t stop the fun. Instead, the rain became a symbol of the community’s spirit—finding joy and opportunity in every situation.

Activities included:

• Relay races that encouraged cooperation

• Problem-solving challenges that required creative thinking

• Group games that built trust and communication skills

  
  

These games were not only enjoyable but also practical. They helped students practice leadership skills in real time, such as taking initiative, listening to others, and staying calm under pressure.

A Community Connected

One of the most inspiring parts of the day was seeing parents, teachers, and students work together. Parents joined in physical challenges alongside teachers, showing their support and commitment to the school’s mission. Students stepped up as team captains, demonstrating confidence and responsibility.

This event highlighted the strong sense of community at GLIS. It reminded everyone that leadership is not just about individual success but about supporting and uplifting others. The collaboration between families and faculty created an environment where everyone felt valued and connected.

Gratitude and Looking Ahead

The success of the Family Day and Leadership Camp would not have been possible without the dedication of many people. Special thanks go to Director Joseph Costello for his inspiring leadership, the faculty for their hard work in organizing the event, and the staff at Caliraya Resort for providing a beautiful and welcoming setting.

Most importantly, the parents who participated showed how much they care about their children’s growth. Their involvement strengthens the entire GLIS community and sets a powerful example for the students.

This event was a reminder that education is a shared journey. When families, teachers, and students come together, they create a strong foundation for future leaders.