By Karren Jay G. Asgar

Centralian Jennifer Erika P. Angeles is one of the finalists for the 2024 Outstanding Student Leaders of the Philippines.

Jennifer Erika P. Angeles, a fresh graduate of the Bachelor of Science in Social Work under the College of Arts and Sciences, has been named one of the finalists in the prestigious 2024 Outstanding Student Leaders of the Philippines (OSLP) by TRAC Philippines Inc.

Out of 200 applicants and months of meticulous screening and deliberation, Angeles was recognized as part of the Top 25 for her engagements and student leadership in her community.

“I do believe that my years as a student, at the same time as someone who is passionate about serving others, prepared me for this and led me to this great opportunity. I am always sincere and dedicated to my work. I didn’t anticipate this one, but I am grateful to be part of it. It feels like my effort and the people who were with me all throughout my journey were recognized because of this. I am happy and blessed,” Angeles shared during an online interview.

Angeles received a referral and was able to qualify as an applicant through the endorsement given by the Student Development and Programs Director, Pastor Alfred “Palf” Morales. She underwent a pre-interview round on July 16, 2024, spearheaded by the TRAC Committee, and will be having her final face-to-face interview in Manila on August 24–25.

Angeles’ journey to becoming a finalist was not without undertakings. “Challenges are normal in life, and as for this journey, I almost decided not to apply; however, on the very last day of the submission, I was reminded by my family and some of my friends if I already did,” she said. “I feel tired and exhausted from the plates that I had during that time, but because of the motivation and reminders of the people around me who truly believed, it recharged and inspired me again to grab every opportunity and keep on making them proud. I am happy when they are happy.”

The awarding for the 2024 Outstanding Student Leaders of the Philippines (OSLP) will be on October 4, 2024, at Baguio City.

“My advice and message to the Central Community is that, thank you for letting us, your students, have opportunities such as this. I myself am truly grateful for everything that the institution has instilled in me; I wouldn’t be able to achieve these awards of mine without the support and help of Central,” she added.

TRAC, or Transforming Advocates and Champions, founded in 2018 and registered under the SEC, is a non-profit organization and premier holistic development training provider that promotes transformational and purpose-driven leadership. The 2024 search for the Outstanding Student Leaders of the Philippines (OLSP) honors the most notable student leaders in the country.