ExCel Activity 3 : SYLC 11.0

As a Malaysian youth volunteer, my decision to join the Southern Youth Leadership Conference (SYLC) 11.0 organized by AIESEC in Malaysia was driven by a strong justification. Firstly, I was motivated to contribute to the empowerment of fellow youth by equipping them with the necessary skills and knowledge to boost their confidence before stepping into the labor force. By participating in the project, I aimed to make a positive impact on the lives of young individuals and assist them in navigating the challenges of transitioning into the professional world. Moreover, being part of SYLC provided an excellent opportunity for personal growth and self-reflection as I engaged in self-development challenges, training sessions, and networking with industry professionals.

The activities conducted during the SYLC project were designed to focus on various graduate attributes, fostering holistic development among the participants. Communication skills were emphasized through workshops, webinars, and panel discussions, encouraging volunteers to actively engage in discussions, pose questions, and present their ideas. The LEAD sessions provided a platform for self-discovery and self-reflection, nurturing critical thinking and self-awareness among the volunteers. Furthermore, the project promoted the development of leadership and teamwork skills, as volunteers were involved in designing content, organizing events, and delegating tasks. The dynamic nature of the project also fostered adaptability, enabling volunteers to adjust to changing circumstances, collaborate with diverse individuals, and tailor their approaches based on the unique needs of different activities. Additionally, the international virtual program facilitated by SYLC fostered a sense of global citizenship, allowing volunteers to interact with youth from different countries, promoting cross-cultural understanding and expanding their perspectives. Lastly, the activities provided opportunities for volunteers to cultivate enterprising skills, such as organizing webinars, marketing virtual events, and serving as ambassadors for unemployment awareness.

The content of the activities conducted during the SYLC project was comprehensive and aimed at equipping youth with the necessary skills and knowledge for their career journeys. The project began with interactive activities to facilitate volunteer bonding and create a supportive environment. LEAD sessions provided opportunities for self-discovery and self-reflection, nurturing personal growth and development. The pair-up self-development challenge encouraged creativity and collaboration among volunteers as they designed content on specific topics and presented their ideas to others. Webinars, conducted by industry professionals and livestreamed on social media platforms, offered valuable insights and knowledge relevant to the youth. Employability workshops featured professional speakers from various industries who conducted interactive sessions, including Q&A and hands-on activities, to enhance employability skills. Career talks by industry professionals provided insights into the current job demands for fresh graduates, aiding volunteers in making informed career decisions. Additionally, career coaching and mentoring sessions facilitated by experienced professionals resolved doubts and offered guidance regarding career choices and experiences. The panel discussions involved experts who shared insights on youth employment post-pandemic and engaged in meaningful dialogue with the volunteers. A special initiative was the public speaking contest, providing a platform for pre-university and university students to raise awareness and advocate for the issue of youth unemployment. The SYLC project also included the preparation of a special space by volunteers for the organizing committees, considering all aspects from agenda planning to session materials preparation. Lastly, the project concluded with an overall review of the entire journey, allowing for feedback sharing among the volunteers.

In summary, the SYLC project provided an engaging platform for Malaysian youth volunteers to develop their graduate attributes, acquire employability skills, and contribute to the empowerment of fellow young individuals. The project's activities were designed to enhance communication skills, critical thinking, leadership and teamwork, adaptability, global citizenship, and enterprising skills. Through workshops, webinars, mentoring sessions, and international engagement, volunteers gained valuable knowledge, self-awareness, and cross-cultural understanding. By participating in the SYLC project, I was able to make a meaningful contribution while also enriching my own personal and professional development.