Reviving the Beginning
The Ignatian Student Leadership Forum (ISLF) returned in 2025 in Iloilo, Philippines, after being suspended in 2018 due to the pandemic. The forum brought together students from Jesuit schools across Asia-Pacific, including the Philippines, Australia, Timor-Leste, Macau, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Cambodia, Japan, Malaysia, Singapore, and Indonesia. Indonesia sent 15 students from seven different colleges to participate. The Indonesian participants studied Pope Francis’s encyclical Laudato Si to prepare for the forum, where they discussed ecological issues and deepened their understanding of the Ignatian spirit in the relationship between humanity, nature, and God.
As part of the preparation, the participants met with Father Baskoro Poedjinoegroho, S.J., who instructed them to participate actively during the forum. The theme of this year’s ISLF was “Engaging the Youth to Engage the World,” which encouraged youth to play an active role in world development through dialogue and cultural collaboration. Activities included exploring ecological issues, local cultures, and traditions of each country, and networking. In his opening remarks, Brother Bien E. Cruz, S.J. explained the importance of the role of youth not only in the future, but also in the present.
During the ISLF, the spirit of dialogue was evident through various activities, such as collaboration within balay groups to create art posters and cultural nights, where each country showcased its culture. The encounters at ISLF included not only meeting people but also connecting with Iloilo City’s heritage, residents addressing ecological issues, and even encountering oneself.
Finding the Meaning of Encounter
Entering a space of encounter invites one to use their senses —seeing, hearing, and touching. Although simple, encounters always present challenges that require the courage to step outside of oneself. The presence of young people at the ISLF forum is crucial because they bring experience and enthusiasm. This forum serves as a learning space to increase sensitivity to reality and cultivate the courage to engage. However, challenges such as excessive screen time and low self-esteem can hinder their courage to speak up. Through dialogue, participants learn to transcend these limitations.
ISLF 2025 is not only a leadership forum, but also a lived experience of dialogue and encounter. Activities such as reflection, discussion, cultural evenings, and games enrich participants’ experiences. They learn about openness and the courage to step out of their comfort zones. This awareness demonstrates that engagement begins with listening and growing together. The enthusiasm that emerges doesn’t end at the event; it is shared within their respective communities, inspiring them to build genuine dialogue and engagement beyond Iloilo.
Contributor: Emanuella Kirana Rosari Lestari – Kolese Loyola High School &
Nathanel Satriya Genggam Darma – St. Petrus Kanisius Minor Seminary of Mertoyudan
