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 Leadership training is often enriched by stories of positive role models, but these are not always found in textbooks or in the boardroom. Few leadership programmes would enable participants to seek inspiration from the dramatization of the toughest of journeys made by the humblest of people…but inspiration can be found in the strangest of places.
In a theatre in Derby on a mild October night, the 250 strong audience were at once outraged and inspired by the story of Mende Nazer (pictured right). An enthralling production, beautiful in its skill and simplicity, depicts with love and sensitivity the story of a girl captured and enslaved, first in Sudan and then in London and her fight for survival.
‘SLAVE – A Question of Freedom’ directed by Caroline Clegg, forced the predominately BAME audience to face the abhorrent reality that slavery continues today. But although there had been many tears shed that evening, the retelling of the story of her indomitable spirit seemed to evoke a shared sense of quiet, still determination. The power of learning how Mende had overcome adversity had deeply inspired each of those present and renewed their own resolve.
Inspirational Volunteer Journeys (IVJ) welcomes Mende Nazer and Caroline Clegg to their team to deliver the ‘Strength through Adversity’ Action learning set, a core module of the 2012 Inspired Leadership Programme.
Wrapped around a life changing volunteer assignment overseas, this ILM accredited, post graduate level programme is designed for leaders and managers looking for a fresh, dynamic and relevant approach to resilience training and leadership development. The course draws on the pioneering work of Harvard’s Dr, Paul Stoltz’s 3G Mindset model. Caroline Clegg enables participants to explore their 3G capacity, global, good and grit using artistic techniques of drama and storytelling.
Global: This is the big picture perspective. It is your ability to see the wood for the trees, look at the world and understand the ripple effect of your actions.
Good: This is the sensitivity to people and awareness of and the commitment to do good for others around you.
Grit: This is the fortitude, that uncommon tenacity, intensity, resilience in everything that you do.
The programme is led by IVJ Director Vennetta Johnston. Volunteer assignments are in Kenya and Zimbabwe with a corporate team challenge to build a school in Mende’s village in Sudan. IVJ are currently offering £500 travel bursaries for people who register for the programme before 30th January 2012.
Given today’s uncertainties and challenges this programme is both unique and timely. Developing your personal resilience in a global context gives you the ultimate edge; the soft skills that leaders and managers need in the toughest of times. For more information visit www.ivj.org.uk.
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