From November 22nd to 24th, 2024, we, Christian student leaders from Kabarak University, had the privilege of attending the 2nd Western Region Christian Student Leadership Conference held at the RCEA Conference Centre in Eldoret. The conference, themed “Leadership That Influences,” brought together 115 Christian student leaders from 14 universities across the country. Accompanied by our University Counselor, Pastor Esther Kapsir, our team included myself, Kipngetich Theophilus, alongside Elizabeth Chepkorir, Meekson Kibet, Carol Wacera, Ian Kipsang, and Joshua Munene.
The event was an incredible opportunity for us to connect with other passionate student leaders dedicated to making a positive impact on their campuses. Through keynote speeches, breakout sessions, and panel discussions, we explored the essence of influence in leadership, understanding that true leadership is not about authority but about inspiring and empowering others.
A key focus of the conference was the biblical foundation of leadership. Scriptures such as Matthew 5:13-16 were highlighted, reminding us of our calling to be the salt and light of the world. The concept of servant leadership, modeled after Christ, was central to our discussions. We delved into how Jesus exemplified this through His life and ministry and reflected on how we, as leaders, can adopt these principles in our leadership roles.
Another important takeaway was the emphasis on building authentic relationships. We discussed the importance of genuine connections over competition and the value of mentorship, sharing experiences of both being mentored and mentoring others. These sessions were a reminder that relationships grounded in faith and integrity can significantly amplify our influence as leaders.
The conference also tackled modern challenges that Christian students face, such as mental health issues, the pressures of social media, and navigating cultural shifts. The speakers encouraged us to approach these challenges with compassion and understanding while putting our faith into action.
In addition to the spiritual and theoretical discussions, we participated in practical workshops that equipped us with critical leadership skills such as conflict resolution, effective communication, and event planning. We also learned the importance of vision casting—articulating clear goals that align with our values and mission as leaders.
One of the most memorable aspects of the conference was the opportunity to network with other student leaders. We shared ideas, resources, and best practices, creating new friendships and partnerships that will undoubtedly enhance our leadership efforts on campus.
Attending this conference was a deeply enriching experience that has transformed how we approach leadership as Christian student leaders. We are grateful to the University Management through the office of the University Provost, Rev. Justus Mutuku, for making it possible for us to attend.
As we move forward, we are inspired to apply the principles and insights gained to positively influence those we serve and embody the values of servant leadership. Together, as Christian student leaders, we are determined to create a lasting impact on our campuses and communities, all for the glory of God.
