For the second year in a row, Nagoya International School proudly hosted the EAISAC Leadership Conference, welcoming students from across the region to come together, connect, and grow as leaders.
This (hopefully!) annual conference gives young people a chance to step outside of the classroom and into conversations that prepare them for the future. Students from international schools in Fukuoka, Japan, and Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia collaborated on discussions and workshops exploring what it means to lead in today’s world—whether in their school communities, on the global stage, or in their personal lives.
One central theme that emerged is that leaders aren’t simply born—they’re made. True leadership is not about holding a title or having authority; it’s about consistently practicing and refining skills like listening, collaboration, empathy, and problem-solving. The students learned that good leaders strive to keep growing, continually finessing these skills over time.
Over the course of the event, students engaged in interactive sessions that helped them connect, build confidence, and reflect on what leadership really means. They also faced a series of challenges designed to push them outside their comfort zones, test their teamwork, and encourage creative problem-solving. In addition, the Heads of Schools from EAISAC shared their own experiences and advice, giving students the chance to hear first-hand how leadership is practiced in different contexts.
A few key takeaways echoed by students and staff alike included:
Teachers involved in organizing the event emphasize that conferences like this help students practice essential skills: critical thinking, public speaking, intercultural communication, and teamwork. For the students, the experience was both inspiring and practical—they left with a deeper sense of confidence and a clearer vision of the kind of leaders they want to be.
As one NIS student, Skyla, put it, “I learnt that leadership isn't all about being the loudest and boldest spokesperson but is instead someone who supports others, creates space for everyone’s voice, and focuses on making a positive difference, even in small ways. It made me realise that empathy and collaboration are both skills I will need when leading a group project, organising an event, or even just operating as a participant in a professional environment. It was a valuable experience!”
The learning extended beyond workshops as well. As a part of many EAISAC events, students explore the local culture, with the host school having the opportunity to share what makes their hometown so special with visiting students and teachers. This delegation visited the historic Atsuta Shrine and later enjoyed dinner together at a local mall. These moments give participants a chance to strengthen bonds and connect with peers outside of the school setting as well as showing a little hometown pride!
Hosting this event at NIS underscores the school’s commitment to inquiry, inclusion, and impact. By bringing together diverse voices, students don’t just learn about leadership—they live it, discovering that becoming a leader is a journey, not a destination.
Here’s to building a culture of leadership, growth, and connection!