The Eastern Research Institute of Positive Science (ERIPS) successfully conducted the “Appreciative Leadership Development Training: Transforming Pain into Happiness and Building a Prosperous Future” from 6–8 Ashoj 2082 at Hotel Manang, Thamel, Kathmandu. This transformative program, held under the inspirational call, “Let us turn pain into energy for happiness, rise again, and commit to building a golden future,” brought together participants from diverse sectors to explore leadership through a positive and transformative lens.
The three-day training welcomed 16 participants, including deputy mayors, chief administrative officers, researchers, educators, and development trainers from municipalities, academic institutions, and NGOs. The primary goal was to equip participants with practical leadership skills to transform challenges into opportunities, fostering resilience, happiness, and a sustainable vision for the future.
Training Structure
The program was meticulously designed around ERIPS’ 5-D Appreciative Cycle—Define, Discover, Dream, Design, and Delivery—ensuring a progressive and immersive learning experience:
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Define – Choosing Positive Themes
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Participants identified meaningful and inspirational themes from their personal and professional lives.
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Ideal topics were selected to transform pain into happiness.
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Shared perspectives were created to support collective transformation.
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Discover – Powerful Stories and Lessons Learned
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Participants explored moments of strength gained while overcoming challenges.
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Personal stories of turning adversity into opportunity were shared.
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Interactive activities, including group work, panel discussions, and role plays, fostered experiential learning.
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Participants identified core strengths and resources for future leadership.
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Dream – Envisioning the Future (Next 10 Years)
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Participants were divided into three groups: Healing, Happiness, and Future Redesign.
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Each group created visionary exercises to illustrate an ideal future.
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The dream phase became the highlight, allowing participants to experience the power of imagination and its impact on life and leadership.
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Design – Strategy and System Development
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Participants prepared motivational proposals and long-term action plans.
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A roadmap for achieving ten-year goals, objectives, and activities was designed.
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Systems, structures, and strategies were created to turn dreams into reality.
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Delivery – Implementation and Commitment
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Participants shared personal commitments to take actionable steps.
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The training concluded with final reflections, evaluations, and certificate distribution.
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Key Highlights
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Participatory and hands-on learning approach.
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Discussions rooted in personal experiences and inspirational stories.
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Development of leadership skills through role plays, group presentations, and panel discussions.
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Practical exercises linking positive perspectives to actionable plans.
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Collective formulation of strategies for healing, happiness, and a prosperous future.
Outcomes
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Identification of personal strengths and resources.
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Reinforced a positive mindset for turning challenges into opportunities.
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Co-creation of shared vision and long-term goals.
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Renewed hope, self-confidence, and motivation to move toward a brighter future.
Participant Feedback
Participants lauded the training for its transformative impact:
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Dr. Sunita Sharma, Development Expert: “This training provided a unique perspective on linking leadership with positive energy and possibilities. The insights and practical techniques will greatly enhance my capacity to inspire teams and communities.”
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Dr. Sarita Dhaubadel, Development Expert: “Among numerous trainings I have attended, this one stands out as exceptionally unique and inspiring. The experiential learning approach was truly transformative.”
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Roshan Shrestha, Development Professional: “The 5-D cycle methodology proved to be both scientific and practical. The training was a perfect blend of knowledge, networking, and practical application.”
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Himal Rai, Principal, British Gurkha Academy: “I am now energized and confident that the methods learned here will enhance both happiness and progress in our institution.”
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Uma Pradhan, Deputy Mayor, Melamchi Municipality: “After three attempts, my long-standing desire to participate in this training was finally fulfilled. The program enabled me to deeply understand municipal strengths, collective potential, and the importance of democracy. The process of linking past achievements with future dreams to design new action plans was truly inspiring. This training has empowered me to lead the citizens of Melamchi toward happiness and prosperity. My heartfelt thanks to ERIPS.”
Other participants echoed similar sentiments, highlighting the training’s practical applicability in leadership, educational management, and organizational development.
Conclusion
The three-day Appreciative Leadership Development Training successfully empowered participants to transform pain into happiness, embrace positive leadership, and envision a prosperous future. Through ERIPS’ innovative 5-D Appreciative Cycle, participants left with renewed energy, actionable strategies, and a clear pathway to collective and individual transformation.