The Women and Leadership module places a strong emphasis on fostering a supportive and inclusive learning environment where participants can share experiences, learn from each other, and build a strong network of like-minded professionals.
(Curriculum Description)
Who is a leader? What is leadership? These were questions that opened the first module of the Nyota Leadership Program, Women and Leadership.
For the past four weeks, Nyota participants have examined the differences between authority, power, and influence. They have shared stories about the leaders who’ve shaped their lives. They have compared experiences of male and female leadership and looked at the cultural expectations that often go unspoken.
While the content was grounded in research and best practices, the transformation was personal. Members looked inward. They examined their own leadership strengths and developed growth plans together. They also practiced new skills outside of their workplace.
Cohort 2 and Nyota Co-director.
Généreuse, for example, explained how she adapted her leadership style at home. When she employed a new house helper, Généreuse told the young woman how things were run, “The organization of the house, how the kitchen is managed, how the clothes are handled, everything.” (Note: Most households in the region, regardless of economic situation, require many hands to do the work, as household tasks are labor-intensive.)
After several unfortunate instances, Généreuse realized that she needed to “lead” differently. She had been learning adaptive leadership skills had been applying those at work. After talking about the situation with a few cohort members, Généreuse decided to test out her new skills to home.
“I came to understand how important it is to know your strengths and your weaknesses. A leader must be a role model…and know how to adapt to guide the team and help them reach a common goal.”
Généreuse altered her approach with her helper at home, to positive effect.
This is the power of Nyota. Learning isn’t a solo event that stops at theory. It’s a shared experience in a supportive environment where participants recognize that they are leaders in every sphere of life. The outcomes they desire (see sidebar) become reality.
BE A PART OF THE NYOTA STORY
- Join the growing number of Impact Now champions who are making a difference for women in the DRC, and donate today.
- Join us Saturday, June 21, 11–noon EDT, for a “Congo Conversation” with Nyota graduates to hear first-hand how Nyota experience has had an impact on their life and work. Hear how they’ve made a difference in the lives of others.
CAPTION FOR FEATRUED IMAGE AT TOP: Abdalla (L) and Sarah (R) discuss various definitions of leadership.
WHY A WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP MODULE IN NYOTA?
Adelphine facilitating a session.
Why is there a module entitled, Women in Leadership in the Nyota program? It’s what the women who helped design the program wanted. Adelphine Angemito, a member of the Nyota design team and a Gender Equality Advocate, outlines the outcomes that women wanted:
This module is important because it—
Reinforces women’s confidence.
Many women already lead—at home, in churches, at work. But they don’t always see themselves as leaders. This module helps them claim that identity with courage.
Inspires and connects cohort members with each other and other female leaders.
Participants share their own leadership experiences with their cohort peers and learn from one another. They inspire and encourage each other.
Challenges them to dream big and see far.
Participants are reminded that without a vision, you settle into your comfort zone. You miss out on growth. This module invites women to see farther and dream bigger.
Adelphine describes and Généreuse’s story reveals that Nyota is about expanding perspective and nurturing growth.
PLEASE PRAY
Généreuse and her Nyota cohort colleagues meet face-to-face every Saturday for three hours. They are professionals with full-time jobs. They also have demanding responsibilities and multiple roles within their households. Pray for their strength and health as they continue on this Nyota journey.