When I joined the Laidlaw Programme, I knew I wanted to challenge myself, develop my leadership skills, and make a tangible impact. What I didn’t anticipate was how much it would transform my perspective on what it means to be a global citizen and the kind of leader I aspire to be. Through my projects, leadership development sessions, and coaching, I gained insights that went far beyond measurable outcomes, shaping both my personal growth and my approach to leading others.
Being immersed in new and unfamiliar environments challenged me to adapt quickly and interact with diverse groups of people. While my exchange in Canada was separate from the programme it came at the time I was doing the leadership development and coaching. It provided a unique context to experiment with what I was learning. Being in a temporary setting allowed me to test my leadership qualities across different relationships with friends, peers, and lecturers without fear of long-term repercussions.
One of the most transformative elements of the programme was the leadership coaching. Prior to this, I often found it easier to advocate for others than for myself, sometimes shying away from asserting my own ideas. The coaching gave me practical strategies and the confidence to step outside my comfort zone. I experimented with different communication styles, took initiative in group projects, and observed how people responded, learning to balance assertiveness with collaboration. Over time, I noticed the outcomes, I developed stronger connections with peers, greater confidence in expressing myself, and a clearer understanding of how to engage effectively in diverse settings.
My Leadership-in-Action projects further reinforced these lessons. Managing volunteers at Samaritans Spain, organizing fundraising events, and developing social media strategies required me to navigate diverse teams and address unexpected challenges. These experiences emphasized that leadership is not about control, but about enabling others, fostering trust, and empowering people to use their strengths. I also learned that ethical leadership requires careful thought and integrity in every decision, from how volunteers are supported to how resources are managed.
Structured reflection throughout the programme was another key aspect of my development. Exercises that encouraged me to critically evaluate my strengths, weaknesses, and approaches to challenges pushed me out of my comfort zone and helped me grow. I learned to see setbacks as opportunities to adapt, refine my strategies, and develop resilience. I also gained a deeper understanding of my leadership style: collaborative, empathetic, and facilitative. I strive to create environments where everyone feels included, valued, and able to contribute.
Networking and engagement with a diverse cohort of Laidlaw Scholars expanded my frame of reference even further. Interacting with peers from different countries, disciplines, and leadership styles challenged me to consider alternative perspectives, communicate more clearly, and adapt my approach to different contexts. These connections, along with mentorship and coaching, have strengthened my confidence in leading teams and collaborating with people from diverse backgrounds.
Looking forward, my Laidlaw experience has shaped my vision for leadership. I aspire to lead with integrity, empathy, and inclusivity, empowering others to contribute meaningfully and making decisions collaboratively. I have learned that leadership is not about authority or quick wins, but about co-creation, ethical action, and fostering trust. Being a global citizen means recognizing the interconnectedness of our communities and taking responsibility to make a positive impact wherever possible.
In summary, the Laidlaw Programme has been transformative. It has enhanced my leadership capacity, strengthened my understanding of leadership, and taught me how to navigate challenges with confidence and reflection. Even experiences outside the Programme, such as my time in Canada allowed me to experiment with these lessons in real-world settings, improving my personal relationships and broadening my understanding of different perspectives. The Programme has provided me with the tools, mindset, and confidence to lead effectively, ethically, and with empathy both locally and globally.