Mandela Rhodes Scholarship leadership programme 2009

Report on First Workshop: 13 – 17 January 2009

The first 2009 leadership programme organised by the Mandela Rhodes Foundation, which centred on transformational leadership was held in Stanford Valley, Western Cape, from 13-17 January 2009.

I was excited to be with my fellow scholars but a bit anxious too, as to whether the expectations I had of this workshop would be met.

The first day was very emotional as each of us had to tell our life narratives. We had to share with others the story of our lives so far that made us decide that we wanted to make a change in our lives and in the lives of the people of our continent. Some narratives were so intense that they often ended with the group shedding a couple of tears.

To be honest, I was very stressed during the first sessions because the ideas and opinions expressed by the other young individuals were so amazing that I was scared I would not make a good impression when it was my turn to talk. I am well aware of the heavy French accent that I carry in my conversations, which made things more difficult for me.

But yet, this fear eased with the help of my fellow scholars, who made me feel very comfortable and did not mind my not-so-proficient English. So this feeling of being appreciated by bright, yet very humble peers helped me to open up and express myself with comfort and confidence.

The workshop, which lasted four days, was also very physically challenging as we would start every day at 08:30 and carry on until 17:30, with about three breaks in between. It was also intellectually stimulating because of the topics that were covered.

Sessions were conducted by distinguished guest speakers such as researchers, university lecturers and self-made business individuals.

Highlights of the topics covered:

• Transformational leadership - whereby we were made aware of the methodologies to self-transform ourselves into potential future leaders such as education, entrepreneurship, moral authority etc…
• The art of leadership - which is an art of possibilities. We were made aware that leadership is about the relationships one develops with the people that one leads. Leadership is about believing in the potential that resides in the people that one leads and no matter one’s position in an organisation, one can make the difference.

I also learnt a lot from the sessions that were held there. I am now convinced that leading to change people’s lives is what I want to do and what I want to live for.

After spending this time with fellow bright-minded individuals, with whom I share that vision of an Africa that we hold so dearly in our hearts, I can say with certainty that the future of our beloved continent is promising and will be in good hands.