“The unexpected surprise of ISLI” by Aada Lehtoniemi -Regents Column
On Thursdays, we pass the floor to one of the Regents. The Regents are the driving force behind the International Student Leadership Institute. They wear many hats: from crafting presentations to orchestrating the Olympics and leading interest groups. Without the Regents, there is no ISLI. Through this column they get a chance to take the center stage of our website to share insights, experiences and reflections. Every week, Regents from the past and the present take you on a journey through leadership, learning and the vibrant spirit that defines the very heart of ISLI. This week, Aada Lehtoniemi shares her memories as a participant at ISLI 2023.
Unexpected highlights
The atmosphere in ISLI was amazing. Being together in the big conference room and learning about leadership was extraordinary. The energy in the room was palpable, charged with enthusiasm and a shared commitment to personal and collective growth. The presentations, discussions, and interactive sessions created an environment where every participant felt valued and heard.
During the Olympics, I discovered a side of myself that I never knew existed. The contagious spirit of camaraderie and competition turned an event I would normally just tolerate into one of the unexpected highlights of my ISLI experience. The cheers, laughter, and friendly rivalries brought us all together, breaking down barriers and creating lasting memories. It wasn't just about winning or losing; it was about the collective joy of participation and the bonds forged through shared challenges.
In those moments, I realized that ISLI wasn't just a leadership seminar; it was a celebration of diversity, collaboration, and the joy of stepping out of our comfort zones. The Olympics, once an event on the sidelines of my interest, became a symbol of the unity and strength that ISLI fosters among its participants. It taught me that sometimes, the most memorable experiences come from unexpected sources, and that openness to new possibilities can lead to personal transformation.
Bonds and Memories that Last
ISLI was a place where friendships could be formed. We were tightly together with our color groups, roommates, and other friends. In the evening on our free time people would hang out in big groups and happy chatter was all around. Those are the moments I appreciate and remember the best.
For humans it’s important to feel like, what we are doing matters and in ISLI it truly felt like that. Even though the tasks were fun they still felt important. In the color groups we wanted to put our best foot forward and show what we could do. In ISLI I realized just how fun working in a group could be.
Aada Lehtoniemi, an 18-year-old student hailing from the enchanting landscapes of Finland, is a vibrant soul with a passion for the arts and a zest for adventure. Currently immersed in her educational journey at an upper secondary school in Kangasala, Aada's focus extends beyond textbooks and classrooms to the realms of music, literature, and the great outdoors. She will be a Regent at ISLI 2024.
