Investing in Leadership Development

The first priority of the 2030 In Sight strategy is to “Develop Leadership”. If we are to deliver on our big goals to transform eye health and ensure eyecare services are accessible to everyone, everywhere, we need leaders from all parts of the sector who are driven to think and work differently.  

To respond to this priority, IAPB is exploring how best to support members in developing leadership capability, and creating opportunities for members to share with each other their approaches to leadership development, and any recommended programmes and opportunities. We are specifically focused on those programmes that emphasise key systems leadership skills, such as collaboration and coalition building, awareness of self, organisations, and systems, advocacy and influencing, and supporting learning cultures.  

Recently, team members from Cure Blindness Project participated in the Courageous Leaders programme offered by Amino Leadership. The Courageous Leaders programme is an online programme that combines half-day workshops with 1:1 coaching to support civil society and public sector leaders reimagine and fulfil their leadership capabilities. The Cure Blindness participants offered these reflections on their experience:  

Participating in the Courageous Leaders programme has really positively impacted by confidence as a leader. The programme brings a very wholistic focus of leadership, acknowledging the different roles we play in our life and other responsibilities we hold outside of our work sphere. The programme was delivered in a very engaging way, and has a big focus on diversity and inclusion, which I found really helpful and relevant.  I would recommend the Courageous Leaders programme for professionals of any level. 

Lauren Rogers-Bell, Senior Director of Grants  

Attending the Courageous Leaders Program has been a transformative experience for me. The program provided an environment that not only encouraged but also empowered me to confront and overcome my fears as a leader. The carefully designed sessions challenged me to step out of my comfort zone and embrace uncertainty, which is crucial for any leader striving to make impactful decisions in today’s complex world. 

One of the most valuable aspects of the program was its focus on self-awareness. Through various reflective exercises and focused 1:1s , I gained deeper insights into my own strengths and areas for growth. The interactive workshop sessions and real-world scenarios allowed me to practice and apply the principles of courageous leadership in a safe and supportive environment. The guidance from seasoned mentors and the shared experiences of the group were instrumental in helping me to navigate the challenges that come with leadership. The program emphasized the importance of resilience, adaptability, and leading with empathy, all of which are essential qualities in today’s dynamic leadership landscape. I particularly appreciated how the program encouraged us to embrace vulnerability as a strength, rather than a weakness. I certainly recommend the program specially to the upcoming leaders in the organization who have potential to lead with empathy.  

Amino Leadership are offering any IAPB members a 10% discount for their Courageous Leaders programme. They also offer a limited number of subsidised places for leaders of the Global Majority.  

The next cohort will begin in October, with another cohort launching in April. The April cohort will be for female leaders only.  

If you have had a recent positive experience of a leadership development programme or opportunity that you think that other members would benefit from, please let us know.