iLeadership Academy-the I is for Ikigai. Ikigai (ee-key-guy) is a small Japanese word with a BIG meaning. The concept is often used in the corporate world and is about finding one’s Purpose. The Ikigai Leadership Academy will help students find what they are passionate about in life-and with expert teacher guidance, will develop Voice and Agency leading to a potential COLLEGE MAJOR and CAREER CALLING. 

Recent studies point out that 60 percent of America’s high school students are stressed, bored and tired. Almost 40 percent of high school students have significant mental health challenges. Moreover, The workforce is undergoing fundamental changes, with employers increasingly looking beyond degrees alone to emphasize individual competencies instead.

Known as the skills economy, this framework allows employers to more accurately assess which tasks are essential and whether current or future employees are capable of fulfilling those tasks. In this context, job candidates who convey skill mastery will gain a valuable edge over other applicants, especially if they can reveal the right blend of skills and credentials.

iLeadership leaders will emerge with the foundations of these skills and a strong working draft of their university applications. 

In a two, four, or eight days intensive, engaging, and FUN learning experience, students will explore their IKIGAI and develop a short TED TALK and working draft of a UC PIQ ENTRANCE ESSAY and COMMON APPLICATION ESSAY -used by Ivy League for entrance evaluation. The Ted Talk format (called soapbox speech) is a three to four-minute speech sharing a personal story and describing what’s important to the student leading to a career calling or major, which forms the foundation of a college entrance essay. 

Why a speech? A soapbox speech is beneficial for a young adolescent because it offers a concise and engaging way to learn new ideas and perspectives, while also fostering healthy mental well-being by surfacing a young person’s purpose. The format encourages clear communication and critical thinking, helping young minds quickly grasp complex concepts. Soapbox speeches often address diverse, inspiring topics that spark curiosity, helping adolescents connect with larger, meaningful issues, which can instill a sense of purpose. Additionally, many TED Talks highlight the importance of belonging and community, showing adolescents that they are not alone in their experiences. This sense of connection can support mental health by reducing feelings of isolation and promoting resilience. The storytelling and visual elements make the experience memorable and empowering, boosting confidence, enhancing public speaking skills, and motivating young individuals to find their own voice in the world leading to a college major and career pathway.

Students will make new friends through interactive activities designed to enhance their social skills and emotional intelligence. These are vital skills for college and career success.

Researchers at the University of California, Irvine have found that students entering the university with a sense of purpose grounded in skills including: communication, critical thinking, creativity (innovation), collaboration, and compassion (for self and others) do significantly better with grades and on-time graduation than others.