By Ryan Tejero
Leos or young lions or better yet, young leaders were convened on October 27, 2024 at the Lani Hall of the ITC Building in Houston. The group inducted its new officers and new members. The goal of Leos is to further the club’s projects focused on youth, disaster relief, humanitarian efforts, diabetes, childhood cancer, environmental initiatives, and hunger-related projects. It will also strengthen the spirit of volunteerism and increase opportunities for the group to give-back to the community.
Leo was also organized and built on a strong foundation of bringing awareness on issues such as vision problems, drug abuse, diverse cultural awareness, and the need for the youth to be supported, training and emotional preparedness. With the support of Royal Oaks Lions Club, positivity and hope for the future can only be sustained and grasped by Leos who will be the future community leaders.
In her speech as incoming president of Leo, Jamele Mariano reflected on the first time she joined Leo. She said, “I grew curious about what it truly means when the Lions tell us to ROAR. Of course, initially, I’ll be honest, I kinda cringed because I didn’t want to actually roar or make a roaring sound. But as I started to build these deep and wholehearted relationships with my fellow Leos, I learned the true art of Roaring like a Leo.”
Lions Club dignitaries who were present during the event include Nancy Smith, Past District Governor Larkin Smith, Nancy Chesbro, and HRO Lion President Niesan Emara. Also present during the event were VIPs: Dr. Brandi Brotherton, PCG Vice Consul Maria Tanya Gaurano and Dr. Anthony Mays, Alief ASD Superintendent.
Leos adviser, Lion Minette Chiu expressed that “We are so proud of our Leos. They are really passionate and dedicated to lead and serve the community.”
Lion Emee Nisnissan applauded all the guests who graced the event, including One Philippines who provided coverage and interviews of the induction ceremony. She said that “Your presence means so much to these young leaders who will help create a better world for all of us. We appreciate all of you.”
In his post event statement, One Philippines Publisher and CEO, Bhong Zausa stated that “I am so proud of our Filipino American youth for actively involving themselves in community and humanitarian work. This is a good reassurance for us that future leaders are getting the hands on training on how to serve their fellowmen. Thank you and congratulations to Leo and the Royal Oaks Lions Club.”
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