JCI Manila Builds Global Connections at the JCI Global Youth Summit in New York

NEW YORK CITY — Great leaders are not only shaped by the communities they serve, but also by the global connections they cultivate.

Following an inspiring first day of the 2026 JCI Global Youth Summit, members of the JCI Manila delegation gathered with fellow Jaycees from around the world for a special evening of fellowship hosted by JCI Philippine-New York.

The gathering was graced by the presence of 2026 JCI World President Alejandra Castillo and 2026 JCI World Congress Director Sen. Luis Angelo “LA” Sevilla, together with the rest of the JCI Manila delegation, creating an atmosphere that celebrated friendship, collaboration, and the shared vision of the global JCI movement.

The fellowship came after an exciting opening day of the JCI Global Youth Summit 2026, where young leaders from across the globe came together in New York City for keynote sessions, leadership laboratories, diplomacy simulations, interactive workshops, and meaningful conversations centered on sustainable development and international cooperation. The three-day summit brings together 260 young changemakers to strengthen their leadership skills and culminates in the development of a Youth Resolution for 2030, reflecting the collective voice of the next generation of global leaders.

With the day’s learning still fresh in their minds, delegates continued the conversations beyond the conference halls. Hosted by JCI Philippine-New York, the evening became an opportunity to strengthen friendships, exchange ideas, and build partnerships that will continue long after the summit concludes.

From discussions on leadership and service to stories of culture, community, and personal journeys, the gathering reflected what makes JCI unique: the ability to transform professional relationships into lifelong friendships that transcend borders.

For the JCI Manila delegation, the fellowship was a reminder that representing the Philippines on the international stage extends beyond participating in sessions. It means creating meaningful connections with fellow Jaycees, sharing best practices, and strengthening the global network that empowers young leaders to create positive change in their own communities.

The presence of World President Alejandra Castillo underscored JCI’s commitment to developing globally minded leaders, while Congress Director LA Sevilla continued to build excitement for the 2026 JCI World Congress in Clark, Philippines, where the international JCI family will gather once again later this year.

As the summit continues, the journey is only beginning. Day 1 offered inspiring keynote sessions, meaningful conversations, and new global connections that set the tone for the days ahead. With more world-class speakers, transformative learning experiences, and unforgettable moments still to come, the JCI Manila delegation proudly carries the Filipino spirit of leadership and collaboration onto the global stage.

Because every conversation has the power to spark an idea, every connection has the potential to become a partnership, and every summit reminds us that while we may come from different countries, we are united by one mission: to develop leaders who create positive change.