Justine Mae Berceles Carino

Supporting Global Goals for Sustainable Development

The SJE General Assembly 2025 aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):

• SDG 4: Quality Education (Indicator 4.4.1 – Increase relevant skills for employment, decent jobs, and entrepreneurship) Through leadership development, student governance, and entrepreneurial training.
• SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth (Indicator 8.6.1 – Reduce the proportion of youth not in employment, education, or training) By promoting youth-led enterprises and sustainable business practices.
• SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure (Indicator 9.5.1 – Enhance research and innovation capacity) Via creative competitions and student-led innovation initiatives.
• SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals (Indicator 17.17.1 – Encourage effective public, public-private, and civil society partnerships) Through collaboration between students, faculty, and guest entrepreneurs.

Baguio City, Benguet – May 26, 2025

Amid the vibrant pulse of Gov. Pack Road and Session Road, the Society of Junior Entrepreneurs (SJE) convened its General Assembly at the UC Auditorium, themed “Transforming Passion into Profit.” The event brought together student leaders, faculty members, and aspiring entrepreneurs in a dynamic afternoon of elections, policy reform, creative engagement, and motivational discourse.

A Gathering of Visionaries

The assembly commenced with Dr. Nikko Jayson P. Go, SJE Adviser, who provided essential updates and outlined the day’s procedures. His structured guidance set the tone for a purposeful and well-organized event.

Dr. Orlina Ursula D. Regua delivered the formal welcome remarks, emphasizing the importance of student leadership in bridging academic knowledge with real-world application. Her message resonated with the assembly’s theme, encouraging students to pursue ventures that are both profitable and socially impactful.

Inspiring Change Through Experience

The highlight of the afternoon was the keynote address by Ms. Maria Agnes Beng C. Garcia, a seasoned entrepreneur whose journey exemplifies the transformation of passion into community-driven enterprise. Introduced by SJE Officer Alesandra Pearl T. Cuaresma, Ms. Garcia shared insights on building sustainable businesses rooted in personal values and social responsibility.

Leadership in Action

The heart of the assembly focused on organizational governance. Led by President Karen B. Tambo and Secretary Eunice Angelica B. Estallila, members deliberated on proposed amendments to the SJE by-laws, ensuring that the organization remains responsive to evolving student needs.

Following the discussions, the election of new officers for the academic year 2024–2025 was conducted via secret ballot. The newly elected officers are:

• President: Jayvee Perez
• Vice President for Internal Affairs: Lawrence Cruz
• Vice President for External Affairs: Gabriel Panelo
• Secretary: Eunice Estallila (renominated)
• Treasurer: Valerie Nasudman
• Auditor: Mary Ann Rapisura
• Public Relations Officers (3): Eden Capili, Rizdel De La Cruz, Aira Disu
• Business Managers (3): Shakirah Bongar, Wali Villanueva, Iszhalyn Facun

Their election marks a new chapter in SJE’s journey, with a renewed commitment to innovation, inclusivity, and sustainable enterprise.

Creativity and Engagement

To foster student involvement and celebrate creativity, the assembly featured a raffle draw with surprise prizes awarded to three lucky Business Administration students. The excitement added a lively break to the formal proceedings.

In line with the theme, the UC Logo Recreation Contest was launched, inviting SJE members to submit innovative renditions of the university’s emblem. Running for two weeks, the contest encourages students to apply branding principles and artistic vision—highlighting the intersection of design, identity, and entrepreneurship.

Closing with Purpose

As the event drew to a close, ballots were collated, nominations verified, and certificates of participation distributed. Secretary Eunice Angelica B. Estallila officially announced the winning candidates, while SJE officers ensured a smooth and celebratory conclusion.

Attendees left the UC Auditorium inspired, informed, and empowered—ready to transform their passions into ventures that contribute to both personal growth and societal progress.

A Sustainable Future Through Student Enterprise

The UC College of Business Administration continues to champion student-led innovation and sustainable development. The SJE General Assembly 2025 stands as a milestone event, reaffirming UC’s commitment to nurturing future entrepreneurs who are not only profit-driven but purpose-led.

Event photos and contest entries will be featured in the upcoming gallery.

UCiansLead #SJEAssembly2025 #SDG4 #SDG8 #SDG9 #SDG17 #TatakUC #yesUCan

Photos by:  SJE Club

Edited by: jpi