First MEAR NRYLI Inter-School Competition in Saudi a Triumph of Leadership, Talent, and Unity
Saudi Arabia – April 2025.
In a historic and unifying event that brought together young minds, servant leaders, and Filipino heritage, the Knights of Rizal – Middle East and Africa Region (MEAR) successfully hosted the 1st NRYLI Inter-School Academic, Talent & Skills Competition and Leadership Training in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
With the theme of youth empowerment through excellence, the event gathered students from across the region for a multi-day leadership immersion and inter-school competition that celebrated Filipino brilliance, talent, and Rizalian values.
🏛️ Gratitude to the Knights of Rizal Supreme Council
This remarkable initiative was made possible through the unwavering support of the KOR Supreme Council, especially:
- Sir Virgilio R. Esguerra, KGCR
Past Supreme Commander & Member, Council of Elders - Sir Dr. Emmanuel P. Calario, KGCR
Past Supreme Pursuivant & Former Chairman, National Historical Commission of the Philippines
Their presence and patronage elevated the event and reminded participants of the deep roots of service and sacrifice inspired by the life of Dr. José Rizal.
🏫 Participating Schools Across the Region
Representing excellence from every corner of the Middle East, the following schools participated with outstanding student-delegates and coaches:
- Philippine School Bahrain (PSB)
- Al Majd International School – Philippine Curriculum (AMIS-PC)
- International Philippine School in Al-Khobar (IPSA)
- International Philippine School in Jeddah (IPSJ)
- Elite International School (EIS)
- Palm Crest International School (PCIS)
- Philippine School Doha (PSD)
- Philippine International School Qatar (PISQ)
Each school contributed not just competitors, but young leaders ready to rise for nation and character.
👑 Salute to MEAR Leadership
Our deep thanks to the KOR-MEAR Leadership, who made this entire vision come to life:
- Sir Elpidio R. Quiteves, KCR
MEAR Regional Commander - MEAR Chapter Commanders
- KOR Members and Ladies of the Knights across the region
Their tireless preparation, commitment to youth formation, and collaborative leadership brought this first-of-its-kind initiative to excellence.
🤝 Thank You to Our Sponsors
This event would not have been possible without our valued sponsors and partners, who share our belief that every young Filipino deserves access to leadership training, platforms of growth, and meaningful connection.
From travel support to resources, your generosity is an investment in the future of the Filipino youth.
🏆 To the Students: You Are Our Rising Leaders
To all the student-delegates—whether you brought home awards or not—know that you have already won.
You have stood in front of peers. You have spoken, performed, competed, and led. You have carried your school’s name with honor.
You now carry with you something greater:
confidence, resilience, and the Rizalian spirit.
To quote our beloved KOR motto:
Non Omnis Moriar – “Not everything in me will die.”
Your growth, your voice, your leadership will live on in every step you take from here.
📣 FI TODAY Honors This Milestone
We salute the Knights of Rizal MEAR, all participating schools, sponsors, and families behind every student-delegate. This is not just a regional event—it is a legacy in the making.
Let this be the first of many.
Let our youth continue to rise—not just as champions, but as leaders.
FI TODAY
For the Community. For the Culture. For the Filipino.
📧 Got a story to share? Email us at: president@filipino-institute.com
📷 Photo Credit
Images from the event courtesy of Sir Joseph Roquim.
View more at: facebook.com/joseph.roquim
