From September 4-7, 2024, Dr. David S. Ameyaw, CEO of the International Centre for Evaluation and Development (ICED), was invited to participate in the Facilitators & Coaches Consultation and Training, in Bujumbura, Burundi. The program, with the theme, "Transforming Leaders and Nations", was organized by the International Leadership Foundation (ILF), an international global initiative that supports leaders in strengthening their skills to be effective in their work of transforming communities and nations.
The week-long event was attended by participants from 10 African countries, South America, the Caribbean, the United States, and Albania, thus, enriching each participants' experience in intercultural dialogue and collaboration. Attendees included leaders of non-profit organizations, experts in the development field, executives, and diplomats, among others.
The consultation and training event was designed "to create a supportive and collaborative environment for ILF Facilitators and Coaches to gain more knowledge and insights as well as improve their practices for greater impact on individuals and communities." Each day of the training included learning and coaching sessions, both on- and offsite, allowing the international group to engage with one another and glean insights on transformational leadership practices.
Dr. Ameyaw led an interactive presentation on the topic of "Assessing Transformational Impact in Nations", lending his expertise in research, monitoring and evaluation, and impact evaluation. In his learning session, he discussed the need for the rigorous monitoring and evaluation of programs and policies to determine their true effectiveness in creating positive transformation. The presentation also highlighted the development and use of an impact measurement framework, and addressed how to communicate impact stories and case studies. Dr. Ameyaw also led the session participants in a practical group exercise on identifying indicators for the ILF's outcomes and impacts.
The event-filled week provided participants with more than just learning opportunities, designating time slots for networking with their fellow leaders and global transformers. On the morning of September 5, participants were able to attend graduation ceremonies at the International Leadership University Burundi, observing a distinguished and exciting moment for future transformational leaders.
The training program concluded with a cultural dinner on Friday, September 6, in the evening before participants prepared for their return to their homes. The evening included lively music, the exploration of local foods, and an opportunity for all to partake in a unique blend of all the represented cultures. Participants would take home more than just their certificates of completion: new contacts, different perspectives, and a deeper sense of transformation that they would, no doubt, share with their communities for greater impact.
