An STI Student Leader Earns Ayala Young Leader Spot

By: Blessy Sibalon , July 21, 2026

In a time when leadership is often questioned by issues of trust and integrity, Donna Marie Alimpulo, a third-year Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education student from STI West Negros University (STI WNU), stands out as one of the Top 31 Ayala Young Leaders. 

Her journey with the prestigious Ayala Young Leaders Congress (AYLC) began with a leap of faith when she applied in November 2025, leading to an intensive three-month leadership program.  

Alimpulo was among the 31 student leaders immersed in the leadership summit
Alimpulo was among the 31 student leaders immersed in the leadership summit
Alimpulo was among the 31 student leaders immersed in the leadership summit

Held annually, the experience officially commenced with a three-day onsite Kick-Off Workshop at the Ayala Museum in Makati City on January 23–25, 2026.  

The summit was filled with learning insights led by well-rounded leaders and advocates—including Ayala Foundation President and Trustee Tony Lambino, veteran broadcast journalist Jessica Soho, former Labor Secretary Ma. Nieves Confesor, and university professor and theater icon Missy Maramara—who all challenged the delegates to push for collective action within their communities. 

Alimpulo with Tony Lambino, Jessica Soho, Ma. Nieves R. Confesor and Missy Maramara, who shared valuable knowledge with the delegates
Alimpulo with Tony Lambino, Jessica Soho, Ma. Nieves R. Confesor and Missy Maramara, who shared valuable knowledge with the delegates
Alimpulo with Tony Lambino, Jessica Soho, Ma. Nieves R. Confesor and Missy Maramara, who shared valuable knowledge with the delegates
Alimpulo with Tony Lambino, Jessica Soho, Ma. Nieves R. Confesor and Missy Maramara, who shared valuable knowledge with the delegates

Finding Purpose in the Process 

Like many students, Alimpulo explored different campus activities until she found her footing in a student organization during Senior High School.   

What started as curiosity quickly became a purpose, pushing her to take on leadership roles that carried over into her college years. 

That same courage carried her to the Ayala Young Leaders Congress, an inspiration from her schoolmate, friend, and mentor, Kyrie Meliz R. Ferrer—an Ayala Young Leader Batch 2024 alumna—whose journey showed her what was possible beyond campus. 

AYLC Batch 2026 delegate Donna Marie Alimpulo (right) alongside Kyrie Meliz Ferrer, an alumna of AYLC Batch 2024

 

“Rather than being a campus-mandated application, the primary spark of interest was inspired from Kyrie,” Alimpulo admitted. “Kyrie’s own path showed me what was possible for a young leader from Bacolod could achieve,” Alimpulo added. 

Immersed in mentorship sessions with executives and professionals from industry leaders like Globe, Meralco, GCash, and BPI who served as their group facilitators, participants were challenged to identify real-world problems they genuinely wanted to solve. 

Alimpulo’s response was Project Pulso, an initiative that used digital feedback, anonymous channels, and open dialogues, creating safe spaces where students could share ideas and strengthen collaboration across the campus. 

Alimpulo showcases Project Pulso, her initiative and presentation at the culminating ceremony
Alimpulo showcases Project Pulso, her initiative and presentation at the culminating ceremony

“The goal is to create “brave spaces” where every STIer feels safe and valued,” she shared. “Spaces that encourage students to move beyond simply attending classes and start taking an active role in shaping the university community.” 

A Culture of Support 

Looking back, Alimpulo shared her gratitude to STI West Negros University and to University President Dr. Ryan Mark Molina, whose mentorship and support created a space where she was encouraged to learn, grow, and take brave steps beyond her comfort zone. 

Now a proud graduate of the congress, Alimpulo sees her goals differently. No longer focused on personal milestones, she is committed to stewardship and giving back. 

“As a student and a leader, I no longer see my goals as a ladder to be climbed alone, but as a bridge to be built for others,” Alimpulo shared. “My AYLC experience taught me that my journey isn’t about the applause or the prestige. What matters more is the impact I leave in the hallways I walk through and the communities I serve.” 

Stories like Donna Marie Alimpulo’s reflect how STI fosters genuine student growth. The institution consistently champions its student leaders by nurturing their potential, supporting them through challenges, and offering life-changing experiences well outside the traditional classroom.