Professor Karyn Suárez concluded the semester of the Dynamics of Leadership course with a final project as immersive as it was transformative: the creation of a motivational video in which each student was asked to inspire their peers by sharing something truly unique and irreplicable, their own story.
The guidelines were simple, yet deeply challenging: no artificial intelligence, subtitles required, and above all else: tell the truth.
A truth shaped by failures and successes, doubts and lessons, moments of vulnerability and resilience.
“The goal,” Karyn explained, “was to prove they could lead in an authentic and inspiring way, grounded in the courage to show themselves as they truly are. Nothing requires more bravery than speaking honestly about oneself.”
With just these few instructions, students didn’t merely rise to the challenge—they fully embraced it.
They presented a collection of deeply personal videos, woven with humor, emotion, and honesty.
The topics were as diverse as the students themselves: from stories of unexpected travel to intimate reflections on fear and growth. Each submission stood as clear evidence of their personal evolution and their ability to connect with an audience through authenticity.
Honesty: The Heart of Leadership
Beyond technical execution, what truly stood out was the emotional depth, the commitment to the message, and the sincere desire to inspire others.
Given the extraordinary quality of the work, Professor Suárez chose not to name a single winner, but instead created several award categories to recognize different strengths: Best Inspirational Message, Most Creative Video, and Best Personal Story.
Many attendees agreed that this was far more than the conclusion of a course—it was a deeply transformative experience.
“Because leadership isn’t just about being in charge,” Karyn Suárez reminded everyone at the end of the ceremony. “It’s about having the courage to speak your truth, and helping others see what’s possible when they do the same.”
This project marked not just the end of a course, but the beginning of a new way of understanding leadership: a way of leading that is not measured by titles, ranks, or polished speeches but by the ability to move, motivate, and leave a lasting impression. A kind of leadership rooted in self-knowledge, nourished by vulnerability turned into strength, and elevated through authenticity.
This is the vision of leadership that CIS University stands for: a leadership that is human-centered, transformational, and purpose-driven. A way of existing in this world that isn’t taught in textbooks but is lived through meaningful experiences. And it is precisely those kinds of experiences that the university strives to offer—step by step, semester after semester—with the certainty that tomorrow belongs to those who dare to lead with their heart.