Ten intense days between Singapore and Doha: Transformative management training

"One sees clearly only with the heart; what is essential is invisible to the eye." – Antoine de Saint-Exupéry

How I loved these two groups: Singapore, then Doha – two worlds, two different cultures! These three-day seminars go far beyond simple training – you teach, and you are transformed in the process! Leading these sessions on a global scale is a precious mark of trust for us. Here, it’s all about people, their needs, and their challenges.

We aim to foster a corporate culture where managers have the same managerial approaches, share the same tools, refer to the same standards, and are aligned on the same managerial dimensions; a culture where managers communicate with respect and transparency – becoming inspiring leaders rather than everyday obstacles. Contributing to this change is, for us, a source of deep pride and joy.

A meaningful mission – The responsibility of the trainer

Our client has an ambitious goal: to build an authentic and sustainable management approach on a global scale. At julhiet sterwen , we believe transformation only succeeds when people are at the center – with all their facets, potential, and experiences. Discovering and valuing each participant’s unique vision is much more than a task; it’s my vocation, my passion, my raison d’être, my life!

Our client doesn’t simply ask us to deliver content (they could have done e-learning); they ask us to immerse ourselves in local values and culture. We call this "walking on the ground our clients stand on." In Singapore and Doha, this is vital – each country has its own codes, which I strive to understand and respect. My own Franco-German bicultural origins help a little here, I believe. :-)

Putting oneself in the other’s shoes – The secret to cultural adaptation

In Doha, it is crucial to understand the hierarchical relationships deeply rooted in mutual respect. In Singapore, efficiency and pragmatism are central. For years, I’ve conducted training abroad (Mexico, USA, China, Japan…), and I’m always amazed at how you have to adapt almost instantly to different reactions, questions, and behaviors. It demands immense focus and provides unparalleled personal satisfaction when you feel you’re being accepted, even integrated, into the culture.

These trips are demanding, both mentally and physically. Between jet lag, long days, and the energy devoted to each session, I sometimes reach my limits. But this intensity makes every minute invested precious and strengthens trust within the group. We often laugh together – a genuine, liberating laughter that reflects the security everyone feels and shows just how much trust is established.

Anecdote from Singapore: The famous “lah”

It seems in Singapore, almost every sentence ends with “lah.” “Just do it, lah!”, “Trust me, lah!” or “Relax, lah!” – this little word feels like an integral part of the language. It’s so funny, I now add “lah” to everything, too. This word becomes our shared language, humorously breaking down barriers and lightening the atmosphere.

Anecdote from Doha: When a cultural misunderstanding is revealed

During an exercise, I show a video where a European group nicknames a colleague “the grandpa of the team” and leaves him out of a game. We had chosen this video without much thought – until I saw the participants in Doha frown.

After the video, a participant kindly explained that such a joke would be unthinkable there. Respect for elders is fundamental, and even in jest, they would avoid leaving someone out. Never, not even for a second, did we anticipate this reaction during the training design... caught in our cultural biases. ??

Intense interactions – Pride, discoveries, and fatigue

These trainings are unique thanks to the blend of cultural adaptation and technical expertise. In every group, it’s fascinating to see how genuine openness develops quickly. In an atmosphere of trust and respect, participants share their experiences and learn from each other. Watching each participant evolve, from initial hesitation to the courage to propose ideas, is particularly moving for me – even exhilarating!

The consistently positive feedback from participants (“Best training,” “I didn’t expect that!”…) confirms that every ounce of energy, every act of empathy and humility is appreciated. Nearly 30 years in the field, yet the diversity of reactions never ceases to amaze me. Adapting to each person, capturing every cultural nuance, is demanding – but it’s all worth it when I see this transformation in participants – and in myself at the same time!

Looking to the future – Onward to new cultural adventures

The experiences in Singapore and Doha enrich me both professionally and personally. They show just how valuable it is to open up to other cultures and nurture mutual understanding. This is the foundation of sustainable transformation, an essential aspect of our mission at Julhiet Sterwen. The diverse perspectives and openness of participants inspire me and remind me of the unique potential each person holds, regardless of their background or experience.

The next seminars are already scheduled: India, Tunisia, China, South Africa. With each trip, we broaden our horizons, uncover new subtleties, and rediscover the power of cultural diversity and the human spirit. These experiences make this work unique – a blend of knowledge, empathy, and the constant desire to grow together and push our own limits.

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