First Leaders for Education cohort launched in R’fontein

Citizen Leader Lab recently celebrated the participants’ journey of completing their Education Programme.

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According to stakeholder engagement lead Judy Thladi, the gathering recognised the growth and accomplishments of the school principals and business leaders who had participated in the programme over the past 12 months.

Through its Leaders for Education Programme, school principals and business leaders came together to reflect, collaborate and develop as conscious leaders. Judy mentioned the event was guided by an accredited coach and they participated in world-class leadership workshops, received professional coaching and accessed comprehensive learning resources.

“By leveraging their diverse expertise, participants tackled leadership challenges in schools and developed sustainable solutions that will benefit learners, teachers and broader communities. This was the first Leaders for Education cohort launched in Randfontein,” she explained.

Leadership is an evolving journey of self-discovery, collaboration and commitment to making a difference.

“The participants learned that true leadership is not only about managing people but about listening, reflecting and working together to find sustainable solutions. The importance of empowering school principals cannot be overstated, as they are at the forefront of transformation in our schools. There is an urgent need for their continued professional development so that they are equipped to tackle the complex challenges they face in their schools and communities.”

She further stated the event was very successful since it provided a platform for participants to share their personal growth stories and reflect on how the programme had impacted their leadership styles. She added it was also a success in showcasing the tangible benefits of the programme.

The programme included testimonials from Chivonne Abrahams, the coach for the cohort, who spoke about the significance of the occasion. Participants shared their personal reflections on how the programme helped them overcome challenges and adopt new leadership practices. The event also featured informal networking and celebratory moments. The event culminated in a celebratory lunch.

The principal of Mashudu Primary, Charlotte Matshuisa, was newly appointed at the school which was struggling at the time.

“Just then, Citizen Leader Lab came in and asked if I was willing to raise my hand.

I’m so glad I did. In the beginning, I felt incompetent, as if I wasn’t fit to be a school principal. But this programme helped me so much with my confidence,” said Matshuisa.

“Going through this process, I now appreciate the power of having someone to listen and discuss both victories and challenges in both personal and professional life. This was especially important at the time our school was facing community unrest and School Governing Body challenges,” the principal of Kamogelo Primary, Kgasimang Seleke, expressed.