Leadership is a process, enjoy the journey

Leadership is a process, enjoy the journey.

That was one of the key takeaways from the recent Global Oak Tree Scholars’ Gen Y Leadership Workshop.

Renowned TEDx Talk speaker Dr A.J. Minai and GOTS co-founder Veronica Shepherdson delivered the four-hour masterclass for 25 students at its City of Elmina Campus, Shah Alam on May 25.

The workshop was designed not just to teach leadership qualities but also to unearth the participants’ socialising skills.

It began when everyone – students and coaches – had to dance as they made their way into the hall.

They were then separated into four groups named after animals – cats, cows, ducks and huskies.

Each group had to design their own logo and come up with a cheer which they had to perform in front of everyone.

Once this was done, they were given tasks and games to complete, including listing down the qualities of leaders and how to deal with those who refuse to take orders.

They were also tasked with coming out with skits, complete with their own soundtracks to act out how leaders and teamwork make anything possible.

The workshop was also a real eye-opener for the students. Here’s what some of them said:

Noah Elias Ammar: It was really interesting and I enjoyed myself so much. I now know what a leader should be and do.

Myo Sett Kyaw: We had to learn to work together which is not easy. I liked the skit as I got to play the piano (for the soundtrack for his group).

Wan Azureen Wan Abdullah: Leaders have to be selfless and think of the bigger picture. They cannot think only about themselves.

Tristan Lim: It was a good session. I learnt a lot from Mr Minai and Ms Shepherdson. A leader must be willing to make hard decisions.

“This workshop is to show young people that anyone can be a leader. It is a skill which can be learnt,” said Shepherdson.

She said a key to being a good captain is listening to your teammates.

“Sometimes a leader has to be unpopular. He or she may have to make decisions which don’t please the group.

“But doing what is right separates leaders from followers,” she added.

To learn more about GOTS and upcoming events, call +6010-295 6340 or visit www.gots.edu.my

#GlobalOakTreeScholars #GOTS #DefinitelyDifferent #IGCSE #InternationalSchool #Elmina #PlazaJelutong #ShahAlam