Every End is a Beginning

The SheLeads programme for our latest batch of women leaders came to an end with the closing plenary on 22nd December, 2022. While it is always a poignant moment whenever a programme concludes, it is also a time when we do a reality check of understanding what exactly the impact of the sessions has been.

This journey started four months ago with a virtual launch session where context was set, and participants were introduced.?Over the course of this program which had group learning, introspection, activities, discussions and even a little bit of poetry thrown in, participants had multiple avenues of learning.

Each woman leader’s journey is unique. Therefore, apart from cohort-based workshops, each participant was also assigned an executive coach with whom they were able to discuss how the topics in the workshops applied to them personally. Participants learnt from their coaches, their fellow participants, the program facilitators and even from themselves.

This batch was special because it was the first time after the pandemic that we were able to have an in-person workshop for two days in Chennai. The faces that we had seen only on screen now had a personality to go with each of them!

The closing plenary had each of the participants showcasing their journey and the ‘new me’ that had evolved over the previous four months. Here are some excerpts from the presentations made.

“…. leading a more balanced personal and professional life”

“…. developed a new habit to network and build connections”

“…a sense of contentment as well as a feeling of euphoria that I will achieve the purpose that I have decided for myself”

“…learnt to say ‘No’ and delegate better; more confident and connected to my team”

“…I deserve my success and pay it forward with humility”

“…learnt the secret to being more productive, authentic, energetic, engaged and yes, happy with my work, life, and myself”

“…I see myself as a bold and strong leader, ready to embrace my imperfections, work on opportunities that come my way, learn something new each day and be the best version of myself”

As each of the participants made their presentations, the impact that the program had made was evident. It was clear that the one-on-one coaching had had a powerful role to play, helping them deal with many gender-specific dilemmas and also overcome limiting beliefs.

It was evident that more than any other segment that we coach, this program has a cascading effect, not only on the outlook of the women leaders themselves but also on their familial and team interactions.

As the program ended, it set off a new beginning for our participants. A new journey where they will always have their fellow participants and their coaches to turn to whenever they hit a curve on the road.

She leads but she no longer has to do it alone.

Women Leadership Development Programme | SheLeads | CFI