iLEAD Leadership Academy
- Jan 16
- 3 min read
Updated: Mar 24
By Wilson Wu and members
iLEAD Leadership Academy is more than a leadership workshop—it is an experience that changes how students see themselves. Over the course of two immersive days, students arrive as participants but leave with something far more meaningful: confidence, clarity, and a sense of purpose.
Led by Macy Su, founder of YES, iLEAD goes far beyond the typical messages of “be a leader” or “never give up.” Instead, it challenges students to think differently, act intentionally, and grow through real experiences. From the very beginning, students are reminded that leadership is not a title they are given, but a mindset they choose—reflected in how they think, act, and collaborate with others to achieve meaningful goals.
The energy of iLEAD is immediate and immersive. Students are not simply listening; they are actively engaging, speaking, reflecting, and stepping outside their comfort zones. Through seminars, workshops, and real-time speaking exercises, every moment is designed to push them toward growth. They are encouraged not only to learn, but to process, discuss, and truly internalize what leadership means in their own lives.
One of the most impactful moments comes during a workshop led by Macy Su, where a strong emphasis is placed on communication, especially public speaking. Students quickly realize that confidence is not something they are born with—it is something they build. They learn that preparation is the foundation of effective communication and are introduced to the “7 P’s” of public speaking: Pace,
pronunciation, pause, punch, power, passion, and posture. What once felt intimidating begins to feel achievable, and students start to find their voice.
Throughout the program, real-world speakers bring these lessons to life. Laura Rummel, a city council of Frisco, TX, shares her journey from idea to action, showing students that leadership begins with taking the first step and having the courage to follow through.
Students also hear from Kevin, a sophomore at Yale University, who offers a candid and relatable perspective on preparing for college. From GPA and extracurricular involvement to essay writing, he breaks down what often feels overwhelming into something manageable, reminding students that success is built through preparation, consistency, and authenticity.
On the second day, Yucheng Miller, Vice President at Goldman Sachs, challenges students to think beyond academics. She emphasizes the importance of business etiquette, communication, and earning trust first, then respect, and ultimately recognition—key steps in building credibility and long-term success.
The second day begins with a special highlight: a first-hand visit to Texas Health Plano. This hospital tour gives students a real-world glimpse into healthcare environments, administration, and career pathways. Walking through a professional setting and hearing directly from those in the field allows students to connect their learning with tangible possibilities for the future.
The most transformative growth happens when students are asked to step forward and apply what they have learned. Through hands-on practice, they deliver elevator pitches, refine their resumes, and participate in mock interviews—experiences that push them beyond hesitation and into confidence. The mock interviews, conducted by college interns Derek Zhang and Selina Wang, along with adult advisors Ivy Sun and Ted, create a supportive yet realistic environment where students learn to present themselves, think on their feet, and communicate with clarity. In these moments, students begin to believe in their own voice.
iLEAD also encourages students to challenge the process—to question expectations, embrace differences, and pursue better solutions. Failure is reframed not as a setback, but as an essential step toward growth. Students learn that leadership requires resilience, persistence, and the courage to keep moving forward even when things feel uncertain.
By the end of the program, something shifts. Students are no longer waiting for opportunities or titles to define them. They begin to understand that leadership is already within their reach—in their actions, their mindset, and their willingness to grow.
As iLEAD concludes with a graduation ceremony, students leave not only with new skills and knowledge, but with a renewed sense of confidence and direction. They carry with them stronger voices, clearer goals, and a deeper understanding of who they are and who they can become.
In just two days, iLEAD does something powerful—it transforms the way students see leadership, and more importantly, the way they see themselves.
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