Issue link: http://digitaleditions.uberflip.com/i/1518204
6 | SPRING 2024 | www.ladiesgaelic.ie NEWS & SHORTS The LGFA Learn to Lead Programme has become one of the most succesful initiatives in the LGFA development portfolio. Under the guidance of National Development Manager Lyn Savage the programme has continued to grow and every year previous participants of the programme are taking up leadership positions within all areas of the Association (see pages 22 - 24). Engaging with external leadership experts has had a significant impact on the effectivness of the programme. Niamh McElwain is one such individual. Niamh has been one of the core contributors to the programme since it began and shares some thoughts below. Q: Tell us a little about your current professional role? I run a leadership development company called The Hybrid Way (www.thehybridway.com). We empower leaders to create environments where everyone can thrive -- to achieve results while nurturing their people. I've spent most of my career working internationally at Google and moved back to Ireland 5 years ago, so it is a real treat for me to be working with LGFA on home turf! Q: Why did you get involved with the Learn to Lead programme? We ask so much of leaders - especially female leaders. We expect them to be empathetic, inclusive, transparent, decisive. We want them to be courageous, confident, inspiring, and kind. Yet, they still need to manage resources and deliver results. They need to keep everyone engaged while dealing with hairy scenarios. The tough calls. The hard conversations. The unpopular decisions. There is rarely any training for the lose- lose situations they will inevitably encounter. I believe every single woman who is out there on the pitch or on a committee is navigating all of this, and they deserve to be equipped with the tools to do their best work. Q: What characteristics have you seen in the LGFA Participants that the corporate world could do with more of? Haha, what a great question! No BS. Refreshing honesty. Grit. Determination. Passion. Q: From the perspective of personal leadership development, are there any important first steps for people to consider? The first step: build self- awareness. This involves knowing both your strengths and your blindspots (otherwise known as 'areas for development'!). An easy way to spot your strengths: Notice when you're doing something that gives you energy; An activity where you lose track of time when doing it. Something that comes naturally to you, and others say you're great at it. That's a strength. In terms of learning about your blindspots: When things get tough, or conflict arises with someone, take a real look at yourself in the mirror and ask, "What part did I play in this?" "Where might I have made a mistake that I need to own up to?" "What could I do differently next time?" The best leaders are those who know who they are, but who are willing to learn and change if needed. Q: What is your favourite part of the Learn to Lead programme? Honestly, my favourite part is our in-person workshops together. I come away fully recharged and refreshed. Seeing the women discuss important concepts and hearing their energy and laughter is so rewarding. I'm a working mother who's trying to juggle it all and I'm so inspired and encouraged by the women in L2L. They're juggling life and work too, but on top of this they manage to find time in their insanely busy lives to give back and get involved in something they really love. They inspire young girls by walking the talk. That's what leadership is all about! LEADER OF LEADERS