Training up the next generation of leaders to have creative mindsets, integrity, and healthy team cultures is a vision that Trinity Western University shares with its many global educational partners.
In recent months, several representatives from TWU GLOBAL's Department of Leadership travelled to East Africa to strengthen relationships with multiple partners and organizations and to deliver leadership development workshops.
TWU GLOBAL East Africa Tour, Nov. 2024.
Department of Leadership faculty members head up global training
TWU representatives on the trip included members of the newly formed Department of Leadership, housed within TWU GLOBAL, which oversees the Bachelor of Arts in Leadership and Master of Arts in Leadership programs offered at TWU's Langley and Richmond campuses.
Dean and associate professor of Leadership Dr. Shawna Nist facilitated six leadership development workshops utilizing LEGO Serious Play, an internationally recognized facilitation method that uses LEGO bricks to enhance creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving in various professional contexts.
Director of International Engagement (Africa/India) and assistant professor of Leadership Dr. Imbenzi George led the trip and conducted several presentations to inspire current and emerging leaders.
Dr. Ruth Anaya, assistant professor of Leadership, spoke on values-based leadership and women's leadership and gender equality, while Colin Madland, director of TWU Online, led a roundtable on the transformative role of online technology in education.
The following are some of the highlights from their Nov. 2024 trip.
Meeting the needs of local leaders
Arriving in Kigali, Rwanda, the TWU team hosted their first training session in partnership with Kurumbuka Leadership Solutions, an African organization focused on empowering African leaders. Dr. Nist led the first three-hour workshop, which fostered dynamic discussions and inspired collaboration and sharing of wisdom among a cohort of over thirty professionals.
These young minds are the future, and it is our responsibility to nurture their growth...We have forged new paths and ignited possibilities that will extend well beyond our time here.
Dr. George spoke with students pursuing leadership training. He recalls, "Their curiosity and eagerness to learn were infectious. The potential to guide them through this journey is something I find deeply fulfilling."
"These young minds are the future, and it is our responsibility to nurture their growth," he says, adding, "We have forged new paths and ignited possibilities that will extend well beyond our time here."
Collaboration and Strategic Initiatives in Uganda
From Kigali, Rwanda, the team travelled to Entebbe, Uganda, where they fostered connections with a private university, Bishop Stuart University (BSU), and a Christian evangelistic organization, Word of Life Fellowship Uganda. Through training provided by TWU faculty, BSU senior administrators and Word of Life Fellowship staff members explored creative ways to address complex institutional challenges. Dr. Shawna Nist facilitated workshops using the LEGO Serious Play (LSP) methodology to foster discussions around rebuilding teams, enhancing internal communication, and developing innovative curricula for younger generations.
Providing training for higher education leaders
Strengthening relationships within higher education, TWU leaders visited Pan Africa Christian University (PACU) campus in Kenya. A distinguished Christian university in the nation's capital, Nairobi, PACU shares TWU's commitment for leadership training, faith-based education, and fostering servant leaders.
Envisioning education for the future
At PACU, Dr. Nist facilitated leadership training workshops for faculty and staff. Through using the LEGO Serious Play (LSP) methodology, workshop participants practised using creativity to solve complex problems while fostering teamwork and a collaborative environment.
Integrating values and online technology within leadership roles
While at PACU, Dr. Anaya led discussions on integrating leadership values into higher education. This was followed by a roundtable on strategic leadership and the transformative role of online technology in education facilitated by Colin Madland. The roundtable also explored a collaborative initiative for an open textbook project, emphasizing the universities' shared commitment to accessible and innovative educational resources.
Partnering with Gen Z to build positive change
Through a visit with Amina Live Foundation, which has a focus on raising up next-generation leaders, TWU faculty engaged in vibrant discussions with emerging leaders who are eager to address contemporary challenges. TWU faculty members had the opportunity to spend the day with a talented cohort of Gen Z participants, hearing their concerns and dreams for success, leadership, and social impact.
Dr. Anaya inspired Gen Z leaders by leading a session focused on values-based leadership, women's leadership, and gender equality. The discussions highlighted how ethical leadership can address systemic inequities and create opportunities for marginalized groups. For Gen Z participants, who are often at the forefront of advocating for social justice, this session provided both inspiration and practical tools to lead impactful change in their communities. The focus on gender equity was particularly resonant, reflecting TWU's commitment to inclusive leadership and addressing global challenges through education and empowerment.
Inspiring leadership in government
Beyond educational sectors, the TWU team also visited the National Defence College (NDC) in Kenya to provide training for the nation's defence officers and civil servants. TWU faculty members once again led sessions with local leaders. This time the cohort was especially international and included 72 military graduate students from six African nations, India, and Bangladesh. The diversity within the cohort added to the richness of the discussions as participants shared their various geographic, cultural, and operational experiences. As a result of the TWU-led training sessions, NDC members gained valuable skills and insights to enhance their communication, collaboration, and problem-solving abilities.
Developing leaders for public service
Next, TWU expanded its engagement with members of the public sector through leading sessions on Leadership and Strategic Collaboration at the Kenya School of Government (KSG). TWU faculty members collaborated with KSG to provide training in ethical leadership, public service excellence, and governance transformation. This engagement reinforced TWU's mission to create meaningful global partnerships that drive change through education and leadership development.
Exploring future directions
TWU's East Africa tour strengthened the University's partnerships with global leaders in Christian higher education, social and non-profit organizations, and public service sectors. Through partnering with a number of organizations, TWU faculty members were able to share their expertise in leadership development and educational technology while, at the same time, learning from leaders in East Africa who are actively innovating in education, social development, and government. The outcomes of this visit will continue to be amplified through the lives and service of workshop participants, and in many more forthcoming partnerships and collaborations through TWU GLOBAL.
About TWU GLOBAL
GLOBAL connects TWU with the world through innovative programming, cross-institutional relationships, and a commitment to providing quality university education worldwide through our Facilitated Academic Resource (FAR) Centres. Learn more at TWU GLOBAL.
About TWU GLOBAL's Department of Leadership
Housed within GLOBAL, TWU's newly formed Department of Leadership is committed to providing learning environments that allow students to thrive and be personally and professionally transformed. The Bachelor of Arts in Leadership and Master of Arts in Leadership programs prepare students for lives of impact to affect real change in areas where they have influence. The Department of Leadership's goal is to ensure that the vision of TWU is fulfilled and that "Every graduate is equipped to think truthfully, act justly, and live faithfully for the good of the world and the glory of God."
