JEDDAH — "If you want to see a sweeping change, appreciate one's strengths that will help you elicit weaknesses thus enable you to take remedial measures," said Dr. Sangeeth Ibrahim, vice president, learning and development, Sharjah Islamic Bank, UAE, at a two-day workshop conducted by Center for Information and Guidance India (CIGI) International hosted by its Jeddah Chapter in Jeddah recently. Conventional methods of finding out faults to take corrective measures for improvements can no longer produce the desired results in both professional and personal life. But applying the ‘Appreciative Inquiry' by focusing on one's strengths would fetch phenomenal outcomes, added Dr. Ibrahim while citing his own proven professional experiences. "This novel strategy works well in generating good results," he emphasized. The two-day C-LEAP 2020 (CIGI Leadership Effectiveness Augmentation Program) leadership workshop on ‘Shaping Future Leaders' was conducted by CIGI International as part of its ongoing plan to prepare a new team of competent and committed leaders who can support CIGI Vision 2030 thereby create a society that's empowered, self-sufficient, vibrant and influential. KM Musthafa, vice chairman of CIGI International and president of Jeddah Chapter, welcomed the audience and thanked all trainers and participants. CIGI International Chairman Mohammed Firoz in his keynote speech elaborated on each component of C-LEAP; its evolution, design, process and the purpose. The Chief Coordinator Abdul Majeed explained the objectives of the program whereas HR Coordinator Ruknudin Abdullah led the self-introduction part by advising every member of a proper pattern for the introduction. The idea behind this new mode of introduction was to know each other better thereby knowing one's professional backgrounds and their anticipated aims. Every session was structured in line with the vision of CIGI to equip its members to meet the ever-growing demands of the society. "Strive to be a job provider instead of becoming a job seeker," said Dr. Z. A. Ashraf, general secretary of CIGI,explaining the CIGI Vision 2030. Dr. Ashraf drew the attention of the attendees towards the pitiable condition of the society in which members are not aware of the available job opportunities in the country. Dr. Ashraf, an asst. Professor, has got broad exposure and experience by mingling with diverse students of the country. He sought the support of expatriates in instilling virtues in their children at the early stage to mold them as good citizens of the country. In another segment, Dr. Amsa Parambil, who has vast experience in India and the Middle East with Ph.D. from IIT Mumbai, spoke on the ‘Core competency of leadership.' "A leader must be a good listener. Listening doesn't mean that you have to agree with the speaker fully but to understand his feelings," he said while interacting with the audience. The second day commenced with the session of P. A. Abdul Salam, president of CIGI. In his presentation on the subject of ‘Building relationships and leading teams,' he shared some insights about the qualities and values of a true leader covering beyond the behavioral premises of the leadership. As part of the segment, a special interactive session aimed at generating practical suggestions and solutions by forming different groups was held. The HR Director of CIGI, A.P. Nisam spoke on ‘Leadership role', stating, "A leader should have a receptive mindset in order to attract positive thoughts and ideas." He also reiterated the importance of improving the existing social structure to meet the mounting aspirations of the youngsters. Mohammed Afnas played the role of emcee with usual aplomb that won plaudits from the participants. A congenial atmosphere prevailed throughout the sessions. The intermittent group discussions and assignments that not only gave chances for members to know each other but also helped in building special bonding among members of various chapters. According to one of the participants from Muscat, the two-day sessions were meticulously planned with eminent speakers/presenters. He agreed, "He has been empowered intellectually and elevated spiritually." K.T. Aboobacker of Jeddah Chapter proposed a vote of thanks. He expressed a debt of gratitude to all trainers/speakers and thanked all members especially participants hailing from GCC countries. All members agreed in unison that the two-day workshop was not only a success but also cemented the camaraderie and friendship among Cigians living in GCC countries and the program ended on an upbeat note.
