PHILIPPINES

Real growth happens outside of comfort zone

The Friedrich Naumann Foundation (FNF) believes in the importance of leadership in the promotion of liberalism, human rights, and democracy, thus, its offices nominate and send local applicants to the International Academy for Leadership (IAF) in Gummersbach, Germany as well as other German and European venues where seminars to develop liberal solutions, propose common approaches to promote intellectual freedom, cultural diversity and global relations are held.

Through the training programs of IAF as well, the tolerance between cultures, religions and political systems is strengthened which contributes to conflict prevention and peace. They also deepen connections on the continents and regions where the Foundation carries out its projects.

On June 23-30, 2024, “The Power of Networks: How to Build and Use them!” seminar was held at Theodor-Heuss-Akademie in Gummersbach. This seminar drew leaders from political parties and civil society organizations working in grassroots to policy level.

The objective of the training was to help the participants understood the strategic importance and value of growing and maintaining networks, establish a thorough understanding of the role of networks in organizational and societal development, share personal experiences, challenges and opportunities in building and maintaining networks, explore their own authentic approach, preferences and skills towards building relationships and, of course develop a personal networking plan to be implemented following the seminar.

Facilitators included Marike Groenewald, a leadership and organizational development consultant, facilitator and coach and Rainer Heufers, director of Siap Solutions Pte Ltd, a Singapore-based consulting firm that provides strategic counselling, public policy consulting, leadership training, and other services to international think tanks, political parties, corporations, and government agencies.

FNF Philippines sent Mr. Jeric Nelson “Noye” Montes, currently serving as a councilor in Maydolong, Eastern Samar as a participant of the seminar. FNF Philippines has collaborated with him on the strengthening the skills of new Sangguniang Kabataan members and empowering local youth leaders through the Youth Movement for Good Governance.

Councilor Montes narrates his journey of pushing beyond his comfort zone to acquire new knowledge and to improve himself as a liberal leader:

Attending the seven-day leadership training at the International Academy for Leadership of FNF was one of the most transformative experiences of my life. Participating in this international seminar, surrounded by amazing individuals from all over the world, profoundly impacted me. I learned so much from the diverse perspectives and experiences of these liberal networkers, which enriched both my personal and professional growth. Initially, I was shy and hesitant to engage in conversations, but thanks to the efforts of Mariki, Rainer, and Bettina, I gradually felt comfortable participating in the activities.

One key lesson I took away was the importance of understanding your own values and objectives and aligning them with those of your organization. Marike's analogy of values as the hidden force beneath the surface of an iceberg vividly illustrated how they drive behavior, both individually and organizationally. She also emphasized the essential attributes and skills needed for successful liberal networking. We also had the privilege of hearing from Khadija, the president of the International Network of Liberal Women. Her journey from timidity to becoming a successful liberal networker was incredibly inspiring. Rainer discussed the significance of personality traits for liberal networkers, highlighting the critical role of individual characteristics in effective networking.

A particularly memorable moment for me was our visit to the State Parliament in Düsseldorf, where we met Franziska Müller-Rech, a member of parliament. She shared her networking experiences and insights, providing a real-world example of how effective networking can be at a high level. These experiences and lessons are invaluable to me as a new liberal networker. I now understand that every connection is important and that stepping out of my comfort zone is where real growth happens. What struck me the most was the realization that values are a primary driver of behavior. The seminar taught me that pushing beyond my comfort zone is where the magic happens.

My greatest takeaway from this seminar is hope. I had felt isolated in my efforts to fight for a brighter future, but seeing so many dedicated individuals from around the world pursuing similar goals filled me with renewed optimism. This experience has inspired me to continue advocating for my causes and to expand my network, knowing that there is still hope for a bright future.

This article is written by Pie Escobar, the Communication Officer for the Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom Philippine Office