As the Emerging Library Leaders’ Summer School for Asia-Pacific (ELLSSA) prepares to welcome its third cohort, we reached out to participants from our inaugural batch to understand the programme’s impact.
Meet Joenabie E. Arevalo, a champion for medical information and a participant from the Class of 2023.
At the time of her participation in the programme, Joenabie was a librarian in charge of the School of Medicine and Public Health Library of the Ateneo de Manila University. Since then, she has been promoted to Deputy University Librarian for Reader Services at her university, and by January 2026, she will assume the position of University Librarian.
Her commitment to advancing library science extends beyond her librarian role – she shares her expertise as a faculty member at the University of the Philippines, School of Library and Information Studies, teaching medical and health librarianship electives, where she also obtained her bachelor’s degree, cum laude (2004) and master’s degree (2011) in Library and Information Science.
From connections to active professional collaborations
“Being part of the first batch of the programme was a unique and inspiring experience,” Joenabie reflects. The programme created a vibrant network of emerging library leaders across Southeast Asia, many of whom have since advanced in their careers. "Back then, we were chosen by our bosses because they saw our potential as future leaders, and I'm really grateful for that opportunity."
The connections forged during the summer school have evolved into active professional collaborations, with participants sharing expertise through online training sessions and exploring research initiatives together. For Joenabie, the mentoring programme is one that she finds particularly valuable: "My mentor Caroline Pang, University Librarian of Nanyang Technological University, played a big role in my journey to becoming a leader. Her guidance and insights helped me grow and shaped how I approach leadership today.”
Practical tools for modern leadership
The programme’s practical approach has come in handy in Joenabie’s work. She highlights the Business Model Canvas as an instrumental tool for planning strategies, ensuring comprehensive project mapping. The digital transformation sessions provided valuable insights into integrating new technologies while maintaining alignment with organizational objectives.
"What I found most helpful were the tips and advice from the leaders and lecturers," she shares. "Their insights helped me approach challenges with a fresh perspective. And it really wasn't just about the lectures—it was the blend of tools, strategies, and leadership lessons that made a real impact."
Charting a path forward
Participating in the Summer School has positively influenced Joenabie’s career trajectory in library and information management. The sessions on leadership, digital transformation, and strategic planning have influenced her project management and team collaboration skills.
The programme's networking opportunities have broadened her professional horizons, introducing new possibilities within library and information management, while the mentorship component of ELLSSA has been instrumental in her developmental journey and was vital to her professional growth.
We extend our sincere gratitude to Joenabie for sharing her experiences with us despite her busy schedule.
Join the next chapter
Are you ready to be part of this growing network of library leaders? Visit the ELLSSA webpage to learn more about the programme. Perhaps you'll be the next success story we share.