Participants say they appreciate the opportunity to hone their skills for mission.
Published on: 06-01-2023
The Life Hope Center in Silang, Cavite, Philippines, hosted the highly anticipated Leadership Laboratory Growth Series, known as LeadLab, May 14-17. This four-day event provided Seventh-day Adventist administrative leaders and their teams with essential tools, motivation, and support to help them achieve their God-given mission.
The Global Leadership Institute’s (GLI) Lead Lab involved participants in an immersive journey through group activities, testimony, and training. The gathering hosted more than 30 leaders from the Southern Asia-Pacific Division (SSD) territory, marking a significant milestone for Adventist leadership development.
Dr. Erich Baumgartner, the founding director of the Global Leadership Institute, and Dr. Randy Siebold, the associate director, attended the first ever LeadLab Seminar in the SSD. Their knowledge and counsel were important in designing the transformative experience for all delegates, participants said.
The Leadership Laboratory Growth Series seeks to develop leaders who can nurture and grow other leaders in their respective organizations. Participants were equipped with the necessary skills and insights to motivate and guide their teams effectively through engaging workshops, interactive activities, and practical tools.
“LeadLab provides a unique platform for leaders to come together, learn from each other, and grow in their leadership abilities,” Baumgartner said. “Our goal is to provide administrative leaders with the resources and knowledge they need to navigate challenges, drive innovation, and effectively carry out their God-given mission.”
Strategic planning, team building, effective communication, and visionary leadership were among the subjects covered in the curriculum. Participants actively joined in group discussions, case studies, and joint projects, creating a dynamic learning environment that encouraged the interchange of ideas and experiences.
Seibold emphasized the importance of leadership development in achieving organizational success. “Investing in leadership development is critical for long-term sustainability and impact,” he said. “LeadLab equips leaders not only to lead effectively but also to develop the next generation of leaders who will carry mission forward.”
The Leadership Laboratory Growth Series closed on a high note, with attendees thanking the program for the invaluable insights they obtained. These leaders return to their respective professions with greater knowledge and strengthened networks, ready to promote positive change inside their businesses, organizers said.
In a social media post, Ian Felicitas, recently appointed associate director for the Mission Refocus Initiative in the SSD, shared some significant points from the LeadLab training. He stressed the importance of remembering why leaders are called to serve. “We must understand that the core of leadership is calling people to Christ, not to the positions (the grandeur, greatness, and glory) that we occupy,” he said.
As the transformative influence of LeadLab continues to be seen, regional church leaders emphasized that the Global Leadership Institute remains committed to building a culture of leadership excellence throughout the Adventist community. “GLI strives to cultivate visionary and servant-hearted leaders who will influence a brighter future for their communities and beyond via ongoing investment in leadership development initiatives,” they said.
The original version of this story was posted on the Southern Asia-Pacific Division news site.
Edward Rodriguez, Southern Asia-Pacific Division, and Adventist Review
To bind together the Adventist people as we wait for Jesus to come back, by sharing news and information about the church plus articles on doctrine, spiritual growth and mission.
