For Joshua Romano D. Gayares, being named one of the Top 10 Finalists in this year’s The Outstanding Students (THOS) of Bacolod isn’t about chasing accolades—it’s about telling a story. A story of growth. Of grit. Of impact.
“My journey in servant leadership has never been about the recognitions,” he reflects. “It’s about the relationships built and the lives touched along the way.”
Joshua, a 4th-year student from La Consolacion College Bacolod, is no stranger to community work. But THOS, for him, was more than a recognition program—it was a platform to connect with fellow changemakers. “I saw it more as an excuse to collaborate,” he laughs. “To make eksena with a purpose.”
He admits he used to be wary of awards, fearing they might reduce leadership to a checklist. But THOS surprised him—it made him look back. As he revisited the milestones of the past six years, he found himself rediscovering the “why” behind everything. “It was like telling the story of my growth—not just as a student leader, but as a person.”
And that growth? It’s hard-earned.
Among the many leadership experiences he’s had, Joshua points to a large-scale MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) class project as a turning point. With celebrity guests, tight deadlines, unexpected crises, and high-stakes decisions, the event was no easy feat. “It tested our patience, resilience, and creativity,” he says. “But it also taught us that leadership isn’t just about logistics—it’s about leading with heart, especially when things don’t go as planned.”
Challenges weren’t new to Joshua. But instead of fearing them, he welcomed them like old friends. “Challenges are teachers,” he explains. “Every setback taught me what I was capable of. They didn’t break me—they prepared me.”
Now that he’s reached this milestone, what message does he have for aspiring student leaders?
“Start small. Don’t wait for the ‘big break’ to begin making an impact,” he advises. “Go lang ng go.”
Leadership, he emphasizes, isn’t always neat or comfortable. “People will criticize you, and that’s okay. That’s how you grow. When challenges hit, don’t ask ‘Why me?’—ask ‘What is this here to teach me?’”
As Joshua moves forward into the final round of THOS 2025, he carries with him not just a resumé of accomplishments, but a voice—strong, sincere, and ready to lead with empathy and boldness.
From everyone at LCC Bacolod, we’re proud of you, Joshua. Padayon, LCCian leader!
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