Being part of the online course on Creating Local Economic Development Champions: Refocusing the Local Economy in times of Health Emergency (CLEDC) was such a wonderful opportunity and an eye-opening experience for me. It is remarkable to realize that there is so much to learn about local economic development and how important it is in transforming our cities and municipalities into a sustainable economic communities for the overall prosperity of our citizens.

Just like to share all the insights I've learned from each lesson:

LESSON 1 & 2

The COVID-19 Pandemic really turned the tables for countries, exposing how flexible and prepared they are in adapting to the pandemic's drastic changes. The COVID-19 pandemic could be the first of the many unforeseen crisis that we should all prepare for. The local economic development of every community is dependent on the capability of LED players to find opportunities in every crisis and being innovative in solving gaps and challenges that need to be filled to sustain the economy.

LESSON 3

Lesson 3 enhanced my awareness about the legal frameworks and enabling policies that supports and strengthens the economic development in the local level. I realized how much autonomy and capacity LGUs have in bringing economic opportunities for its citizens.

Further, in connection with the COVID-19 crisis, these frameworks we discussed in Lesson 3 strengthened the resolve of LGUs to come up with more solutions. This is my realization from "My Bright Ideas" activity.

LESSON 4,5, & 6

This week's LED Champions Course really strengthened my understanding about processes, frameworks, and tools on local economic development:

1. Initiating LED

2. Understanding LED

3. Preparing the strategy

4. Implementing actions

5. Reviewing results

As a person who likes things organized, I find the value and importance of understanding the LED Process and how I can apply this process in creating solutions, with the case of LED Mindmap activity. Also, my understanding of creating strategies have been solidified. And I learn differentiating it with action plan.

LESSON 7,8, & 9

This week's lesson enhanced my awareness of the importance of collaborating with stakeholders in advancing our local economic development actions. Partnerships are key in establishing a successful and sustainable economic model.

It is also important to obtain leadership traits and styles to champion local economic development advocacies.

SUMMARY

What an honor and privilege to successfully complete this course, and eventually growing along the process as a LED champion! Not only this course taught me all the technical aspects and principles of Local Economic Development but it also transformed me to be a leader who sees value in a sustainable community through economic empowerment.

The tasks and activities are challenging but it taught me new skills and insights that pushes me to be an effective LED champion.