Leading self-consciously through emotional intelligence and in a team environment was the focus of a three-day online workshop for UKZN managers and Heads of Disciplines hosted by the School of Clinical Medicine (SCM).
The event also examined styles of leadership and followership, critical leadership challenges and the importance of integrating the ideas of others to enhance commitment.
The workshop was facilitated by Associate Professor Cecile Gerwel Porches and senior lecturer at the UKZN Graduate School of Business and Leadership Dr Macdonald Kanyangale.
Said Kanyangale: ‘This workshop provided participants with the tools to lead themselves, lead others and lead the system, but what’s really important is looking at the context of how individuals will use these tools to actually situate leadership in their individual leadership context because leadership varies according to context.’
Emotional intelligence, use of empathy maps to better understand team members, models to ensure alignment, and how to identify gaps when implementing strategy or activities were also examined.
‘Examining all interdependencies and embracing change when you’re leading is of utmost importance,’ said Proches. ‘This refers to change at the individual level or change at a systems level. How leaders embrace that change is key. Considering ideas of the people that you are leading is very important as they have their own ways of thinking and methods of operating which could be different from your own. Being open-minded as a leader is therefore a necessity in leading diverse people.’
Words: Lihle Sosibo
Photograph: Shutterstock
