Lead with compassion, give back with gratitude

CEBU, Philippines — Jessica Jawad-Honoridez stood tall and proud with much joy in her heart while being honored as “Sportsman of the Year” during the 39th Sportswriters Association of Cebu-San Miguel Beer (SAC-SMB) Cebu Sports Awards held last  Saturday, April 26, at the Cube Wing of SM Seaside City.

Honoridez is the first woman to receive one of SAC’s highest accolades, a badge of honor for her unbridled passion and dedication in her over three decades of experience as an athlete, coach, athletic director, event organizer, and sports commissioner.

“In accepting this award, I could only say that my heart is full of gratitude for the victories and the failures, for the growth, the grace, and the people who never gave up on me,” said the University of Cebu (UC) athletic director who also serves as Cebu City Sports Commissioner. “This award is not the end of a journey - it’s a reminder that the work continues.”

Honoridez shared that in every success she achieved, in every milestone she reached, and in every life she touched, it all circles back to a promise she made to herself back in 1991 - to live a life of purpose in memory of her brother Erne Jawad whose story left an indelible mark in her life.

A standout table tennis player, Erne was a member of the Philippine team back then. But tragedy struck the Jawad family when Erne was stabbed to death while preparing for an event he was organizing.

“His passing gave my life a new direction, as I endeavored to make my life count in a way that would honor his memory.”

At the beginning of her athletic journey, Honoridez valued the importance of perseverance and hard work. When she became a coach, she discovered the beauty of helping others succeed.

“I saw how a kind word, a belief in someone’s ability, a love from a mother figure could change their entire path,” Honoridez shared. “Coaching is not just about ingraining strategies and skills to my athletes – it is about building confidence, character, and courage.”

Later, as an athletic director and sports commissioner, Honoridez began to see the bigger picture in sporting landscape, pushing her to create opportunities, build systems, and organize events that gave others a chance to grow just like she was once given.

“The journey was not easy as each role brought its own challenges and triumphs,” said Honoridez. “But these roles taught me what it means to rise after defeat, to lead with compassion, and to give back with gratitude.”

Honoridez adviced all young athletes, coaches, organizers and sports professionals to never lose hope, to never give up while chasing their dreams as it will all be worth it in the end.

“Your journey may just be the beginning, but the path is full of promise. Let me tell you this:the journey will not be easy. But it will be worth it. Every challenge will shape you. Every moment of doubt will strengthen your faith. Keep going. Keep believing,” Honoridez said. — (FREEMAN)