From April 9 to 11, 2025, the serene River Park Resort in Sauraha, Chitwan, became a hub of inspiration and growth as ERIIPS organized a remarkable 3-day training on Appreciative Inquiry (AI) for Positive Communication and Transformative Leadership Development for HEIFER International. With the enthusiastic participation of 32 dedicated staff members, the training aimed to enhance positive communication and foster transformative leadership essential for Nepal’s development.
The core purpose of this training was to help participants shift their focus from problems to strengths. Guided by the principles of Appreciative Inquiry, the program aimed to empower attendees to build trust, encourage collaboration, and nurture innovation within their teams. Participants learned to embrace resilience and a shared vision, equipping them to lead with optimism and creativity.
Throughout the training, attendees engaged in thoughtful exercises that encouraged them to reflect on their own strengths and the strengths of their organizations. This process allowed them to uncover valuable insights about their work and envision a future where HEIFER could achieve the esteemed “Global Human Dignity and Transformation Award” by 2035. This compelling vision inspired staff to think beyond their daily tasks and explore the profound impact their collective efforts could have on the communities they serve.
The warm and welcoming environment established by Dr. RC Lamichhane, the CEO and facilitator of ERIIPS, set the stage for open communication and collaboration. Participants not only learned from the sessions but also supported one another through shared experiences, creating a strong sense of camaraderie throughout the training.
Feedback from the participants was overwhelmingly positive. Many expressed their eagerness to apply the skills they had gained and to contribute to building a more positive and inclusive workplace culture at HEIFER. “Real change starts from within,” noted Program Officer Bikas KC, highlighting the importance of a positive mindset. Participants like Mr. Buddhi Khatri, the Regional Representative of HEIFER Asia, acknowledged the training as a refreshing perspective on leading change within the organization.
Through interactive activities, heartfelt discussions, and the sharing of personal stories, the training became a transformative experience for everyone involved. Attendees discovered that by focusing on what works well, they could create an environment where everyone feels valued and heard. The emphasis on recognizing and amplifying each other’s strengths fostered a culture of appreciation and respect.
As the training came to a close, participants left with a renewed sense of purpose and motivation. They were excited to embrace the future as inspiring leaders who could make a positive difference in their communities. The bonds created during this training will surely lead to lasting collaborations that further HEIFER’s mission of empowering individuals and uplifting lives.
In summary, the Appreciative Inquiry training organized by ERIIPS for HEIFER International was a resounding success, igniting passion for positive change and reinforcing the deep commitment of staff to the organization’s mission. With the knowledge and inspiration gained from this training, HEIFER is well on its way to achieving a brighter, more prosperous future for the communities it serves.
