TRAINING SESSION FOR LEADERS
Context: The leadership training session is organized by the national VMY to enhance the intellectual and technical capacities of leaders from various local, regional, and national groups. The 4th edition of this training session for 2024 took place in the city of Mutegene, at Repacol, during the weekend from July 19 to 21, 2024.
Summary: During this training, several themes were discussed: the type of leadership to adopt for the deepening of the Vincentian charism, the true meaning of service, and the place of Christ in the life of a VMY member. From these presentations, we observe that apostolate is the pillar of the JMV member, as it is an activity that requires great organization and careful and effective execution. It must be a work led by the Spirit in humility. Considering the pains and difficulties we face daily—such as emotional instability (inner wounds, rejection, abandonment, betrayal, and injustice) often caused by those close to us—they are often the reason for poor management by the leaders of various local and regional groups. Psychological instability (taciturnity, pride, monotony, slander, and gossip) causes leaders to become incapable and incompetent in managing their groups.
In light of all these challenges faced by VMY members in their work areas, several suggested solutions were noted and approved: the discipline of the soul, which involves self-examination to understand better what is pleasing to God and what is not, recognizing one’s weaknesses and mistakes and correcting them; prayer, which should be the foundation of all group activities, and arming oneself with the necessary spiritual armor as described in Ephesians 6:11–20. Personal development and self-esteem are also major factors for the growth of individuals.
Conclusion: The leadership training session concluded with a thanksgiving mass, invoking the wisdom of the Holy Spirit for our responsibilities. To evaluate everything said and done during the session, we identified new ways to develop our groups, improve the management and motivation of individuals and teams, strengthen interpersonal relationships and communication, optimize meetings, and foster the emergence of leaders and creativity within our teams. Enriched by lunch breaks, this fourth edition of the training session helped to strengthen the bonds between the participants.
I was very pleased to take part in this training session. We deepened our knowledge in leadership, people management, and group administration.
Name: TACHOU Sadrack Boris
Position: General Secretary, VMY Littoral
Group: Yansoki
