Shaping the Future: Leading the International Judge Program.

These first days of the year are busy and exciting for the International Judge Program, with the celebration of the first General Assembly, and the subsequent vote to elect the Regional Representatives that replace the former TRAs (Temporary Regional Advisors). They were the first representatives of the different areas integrated in the IJP, who have contributed, for example, to define the different Regions that build up this wonderful community of judges around the world. 

Now, the new Regional Representatives will choose the new Program Leads from among the candidates who apply.  The challenge is to reach to all those valuable people in the community with the message of how important and truly satisfying it is to volunteer your time to help building not only a community of judges, but also a meeting point to share experiences that will serve as a bridge and union with other communities of judges, players, TOs, etc.

Alfonso Bueno, one of our most veteran judges, Program Lead and president of IJP, has a very clear vision of what the role of the Program Lead is, and tells us about his experience during this year in the IJP. 

His work is an example of how dedication to building a project is hard but rewarding at the same time.

Judging is a hobby that can make people grow a lot, but it’s a complex role that requires study, dedication and help and mentoring from other judges. We wanted to create a structure supporting all those volunteers who want to help other fellow judges, players, TOs, etc.

Over the last year there have been ups and downs, when things don’t go as we want it’s hard, but then there are a lot of great moments when you see the positive results you create for the community when all the bad moments become irrelevant. Now what keeps me motivated and excited are the first ever democratic elections in the Judge Program. Let’s see how this shapes the future”.

During this year, what are some of the most satisfying accomplishments or milestones you’ve experienced in leading this program, especially when it comes to the growth and impact on judges worldwide?

“One of the most satisfying moments has been seeing the diversity and global reach of the program grow. When we first started, we didn’t know if this was going to work, but nowadays we’re over 1250 members. Judges from all over the world are involved, and we have a truly international community. Another huge milestone was the establishment of mentorship and leadership programs within the judging community, which have empowered judges to take on roles and responsibilities that I could never have imagined when we first started. It’s these kinds of tangible impacts that keep me going.”

As you look ahead to the future of the program, what qualities and skills would you like to see in the next Program Lead, and what advice do you have for candidates considering taking on this leadership role?

“The next Program Lead needs to have a deep passion for Magic and a commitment to improving the International Judge Community, but just as importantly, they must be able to inspire and bring people together, as well as have the time and motivation to carry over this great and exhausting task. 

The emotional and interpersonal side of leadership is just as crucial as any technical knowledge. My advice to potential candidates is to stay open, be willing to learn, and embrace the challenges that come with leading a global program. This role is as much about listening and adapting as it is about getting things done. The most rewarding moments are those when you see the community flourish as a direct result of your leadership.”