1- Situation:

We facilitated a four-day retreat in Khorog, Tajikistan, for program managers from different countries working on a global poverty alleviation program. The retreat aimed to equip these managers with the soft skills necessary for maintaining autonomy and fostering effective, harmonious working relationships.

2- Process

The retreat featured a self-discovery learning journey focused on self-awareness and empathy, using both cognitive and non-cognitive tools. Participants engaged in activities to connect with themselves and their environment, such as creating a  map of their work system to gain perspective on their roles and challenges. 

The retreat explored concepts of leadership, power, and agency within hierarchical structures, and included practical exercises in empathy.

3- Results

The retreat led to significant insights and growth in participants’ understanding of leadership and agency. Participants reported a deeper sense of purpose and the ability to view challenges as opportunities. The final online session highlighted how the retreat’s teachings helped participants link leadership and agency with a sense of purpose, enhancing their capacity to make a meaningful difference in their roles.