As development professionals, we are all familiar with the term “capacity building,” which has become a buzz word in this field. Numerous investments are made in the capacity building of individuals, groups, and communities, among others. However, to what extent are organizations prioritizing the development of their human resources? Human resources exist at various levels, ranging from field staff to early and mid-program personnel, as well as senior and leadership roles.
Throughout my 18 years of experience in this field, I have encountered various capacity building initiatives, sometimes as a participant, other times as an organizer or facilitator for diverse stakeholders. Despite years of experience and commitment to learning, I was still experiencing a sense of being "UNSEEN" in a crowded room. I found myself questioning Why do I feel stuck? Where am I falling behind? What more do I need to grow as a leader? I was on a search for answers on how I could enhance my skills to overcome this feeling.
That’s when I came across the Emerging Women’s Leadership Program (EWLP). A friend who had participated in one of the earlier cohorts told me about it. I took the time to explore its design, curriculum, mentors, and impact. Although I couldn’t apply immediately. Finally, in 2024, I made a conscious decision: no matter the challenges, I would invest in my own growth and apply to EWLP. And I’m so glad I did.
Today, as I reflect on that decision, I feel proud and grateful to have been part of Cohort 6 of this remarkable program along with incredible 22 women leaders.
For those unfamiliar EWLP is a 11-week intensive program designed by India Leaders for the Social Sector (ILSS https://indialeadersforsocialsector.com/ )to support the leadership development of emerging women leaders in the social sector. This program has been conceived and executed in a very thoughtful way to equip women leaders with skills, knowledge and tools to advance their leadership journey and create a sustainable impact in the sector. The program also aims to create a cadre of capable and courageous women leaders in the social sector.
The EWLP came as a mirror and a map for me. The mirror showed me where I was holding back – not because of lack of capability but years of conditioning. It was a turning point in my journey in the development sector. Through this intensive training program, I started recognizing my barriers and strengths.
The well thought program structure and content gave me clarity in understanding. I unlearned so many things and evolved during this journey.
I got a different perspective of leadership. I understood that leadership doesn’t always come with a chair, position or hierarchy. The leader always takes a stand when it matters. Some leaders simply lead by listening and stay when things get tough.
Let me share three things that deeply shifted for me.
The power of vulnerability – My strength lies in sharing, not in hiding.
The power of reflection – This program supported me to pause, reflect and realign.
The power of sisterhood – In every break out room, in every peer learning group session, I found resonance and most importantly I found my tribe – those 22 incredible women who will remain with me for the rest of my life.
This is my journey. And this journey is a worth of sharing . To all women reading this your journey matters. And I can not wait to hear yours.
What I’ve taken away from this blog is the importance of self-capacity building. A lack of emphasis on personal development is evident across so many fields today — we often seem to lack the sustained drive for continuous learning. That said, it's heartening to see the tide gradually turning in a more positive direction, as this blog so aptly demonstrates.
Equally vital is the sharing of our self-learning journeys. I do hope more individuals like yourself continue to share their growth processes, inspiring others to embark on their own paths of self-improvement.