Insights on integrating servant leadership and character formation: alumnae perspectives from a youth development program in the Philippines

Purpose This study presents the case of KALFI LEAD, a four-year program for female university students in the Philippines offering theory and praxis on servant leadership and personal growth. This exploratory study examines alumnae's perceptions of the program's servant leadership and character formation and their understanding of what experiences and components within the program foster or hinder such formative goals. In doing so, the study hopes to shed some light on how the KALFI LEAD program might contribute to leadership and character development. Design/methodology/approach The study adopted a general phenomenological perspective, given the interest in the alumnae's perceptions and experiences. Specifically, we adopted a qualitative methodological approach utilizing in-depth interviews with 19 alumnae, recruited from the first five cohorts. Findings The results of thematic analysis suggest that alumnae perceive the program as having effected positive change; that they strongly assimilate a person-centered ideal of leadership, and that they perceive mentoring and pro-social opportunities as program strengths. While participants seem to evince strong virtue motivation, identity and practice, results also imply a need for improvement in virtue literacy. Originality/value This paper provides insights for educators or promoters of similar ventures, as it showcases program components that illustrate research-based strategies of character development and suggests the potential of servant leadership training as an avenue for developing virtue.