Retreat 2016: A Participant's Thoughts
The 2016 Leadership Victoria (LV) program retreat went above and beyond expectations. The 2016/2017 Community Leadership Development cohort participated in a weekend full of memorable, and fun, workshops designed to translate personal styles and strengths into increased leadership competencies and a common vision of "the community of our dreams".
The Cowichan Outdoor Education Centre graciously allowed us to use their space and it was a huge hit! One of the participants, Maria, stated that "The Cowichan Education Centre was the perfect scenario for such an amazing learning opportunity. I love the place, the Leadership Victoria program, the Committee/Coaches and Participants!" The creatively designed space allowed the learners and facilitators to comfortably interact and coordinate ideas in a relaxed atmosphere, and let personality strengths develop in the absence of stress.
2016/2017 LV Cohort at the Cowichan Education Centre
Maria has found the Leadership Victoria Program to be a "very exciting and rewarding opportunity in our own community." The retreat was centered around working and learning alongside team members and she found that "the idea of learning with my team members about my community, and developing a project that could be beneficial for our community, is inspiring and deeply satisfying."
The retreat provided the opportunity for this year's participants to build trust with one another and with the coaching/facilitating team that will guide their experience through the year. Ultimately, the retreat helped to solidify shared visions about leadership, and opened conversations for what this year's participants will do with their Community Action Projects.
Stay tuned for our Community Learning Days from October 2016 - May 2017. The community learning days will include local guest speakers and workshops that will provide the leadership theory and tools to help build local community action projects.
Maria (center of picnic table) enjoying her time at the retreat and collaborating with Val & Libby's Team (team names are being created and will be announced soon).