The programme of Character programme concludes its fifth edition with a reflection on the need to develop leaders capable of acting with integrity, sound judgment, and a commitment to the common good.

The Center for Virtues and Values Education at Francisco de Vitoria University has concluded the **5th edition of programme of Character programme **, an initiative aimed at training young people to lead through character, service, and a commitment to the common good.

One of the closing sessions, titled “Leadership Starts with Yourself”, was led by María del Castillo, PhD, CEO and board member, recognized as one of the** Top 100 Women Leaders in Spain**, as well as a Tech European Executive Leader and Women Marketing Leader.

The conference focused on an issue of growing importance in both professional and social spheres: the need to develop leaders capable not only of managing teams or taking on responsibilities, but also of acting with sound judgment, integrity, and a commitment to service in complex and ever-changing environments.

IMG_9996 The UFV advocates for leadership based on character, responsibility, and service to society Study at the Universidad Privada Madrid

Leadership based on character development

Speaking before teachers and students, María del Castillo advocated a model of leadership based on the inner development of the individual and oriented toward the common good. According to del Castillo, “leadership requires stepping out of one’s comfort zone, facing difficulties, persevering, and putting one’s talents at the service of others.” In this sense, taking on a leadership role “is not just about assuming positions of responsibility, but about allowing oneself to be transformed from within so as to contribute positively wherever one finds oneself.”

In this context, she advocated for authentic leadership that does not depend solely on one’s position or technical skills, but rather on character development and consistency between what a person thinks, decides, and does. For María, “educating in virtues such as responsibility, perseverance, strength, and integrity is the foundation for exercising leadership” capable of generating a positive impact on society.

IMG_0015 The UFV advocates for leadership based on character, responsibility, and service to society Study at the Universidad Privada Madrid

Human skills are redefining the leadership of the future

This point takes on particular significance in a context where organizations are seeking candidates who can combine technical knowledge, adaptability, and interpersonal skills.

The World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report 2025 identifies skills such as leadership, resilience, social influence, empathy, and critical thinking as among the most relevant skills for the job market in the coming years. At the same time, international reports on leadership and organizational culture point to growing demand for professionals capable of fostering trust, cohesion, and purpose in increasingly diverse and complex teams.

In this context, character development emerges as a strategic element for both professional development and the creation of more humane and sustainable organizations.

IMG_9986 The UFV advocates for leadership based on character, responsibility, and service to society Study at the Universidad Privada Madrid

An educational program focused on the common good

Verónica Fernández, Director of the Center for Education in Virtues and Values, describes María del Castillo’s presentation as “a true gift” for the participants. “Her experience, her approachability, and her personal story gave the participants a vivid picture of what it means to lead with integrity, a calling to serve, and a desire to contribute to the well-being of others.”

The programme part of the UFV’s educational mission to cultivate leaders who understand the impact of their decisions and practice their profession with a deeply human perspective focused on serving society.

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The UFV advocates for leadership based on character, responsibility, and service to society

The programme of Character programme concludes its fifth edition with a reflection on the need to develop leaders capable of acting with integrity, sound judgment, and a commitment to the common good.

Leadership based on character development

Human skills are redefining the leadership of the future

An educational program focused on the common good

You may be interested

The programme of Character programme concludes its fifth edition with a reflection on the need to develop leaders capable of acting with integrity, sound judgment, and a commitment to the common good.

Leadership based on character development

Human skills are redefining the leadership of the future

An educational program focused on the common good

You may be interested