Antonio is a Nursing Adult Student at the University of Roehampton. In this blog, Antonio shares some insightful reflections on the 150Leaders Welcome Event who took place in Manchester last September.
Last month, I had the incredible opportunity to attend the 150Leaders Student Leadership Programme Welcome Event in the vibrant city of Manchester. These two transformative days were , filled with learning, networking, and personal growth. Allow me to share my first-hand experience and provide a glimpse into this remarkable programme.
Day 1: Making Connections
The event kicked off with a warm welcome, setting the tone for an enriching journey. The atmosphere was charged with enthusiasm and anticipation as soon as I entered the venue. The organisers did a fantastic job of fostering a sense of belonging. One of the highlights of the first day was the ice-breaking activities. Seeing how people from diverse backgrounds and disciplines came together effortlessly, sharing their unique stories and aspirations was remarkable. These initial connections would soon grow into valuable friendships and professional networks.
One of the most memorable moments was the presentations and panel discussion featuring three 150 Leaders alumni who achieved significant success. Hearing their stories of growth and impact inspired all of us to dream big and embrace our potential to make a difference in healthcare. In the evening, Professor Nigel Harrison delivered a heartfelt speech before dinner that inspired and uplifted me. His personal story was genuine and moving, making me reflect on my priorities.
Day 2: Nurturing Leadership
The second day was dedicated to delving deeper into leadership development. A variety of engaging sessions challenged us to think critically and creatively. We explored the importance of empathy in leadership, learned how to lead through change, discussed strategies for driving innovation in healthcare and the importance of effective leadership strategies to build resilience in challenging times. As part of the entrepreneurial leadership workshop, we were put into groups and asked to develop a project idea to promote student wellness and pitch it to a Dragons Den competition-style judging panel. Every group developed innovative and original ideas; however, I was so pleased when our group project was picked as the winner because we worked so well together, and each of us was able to contribute to the task. Our project idea involved organising six interactive online sessions led by field experts to support students during placement. The sessions would focus on dealing with burnout, racial discrimination, diet, stress, and maintaining professional boundaries.
What I Enjoyed Most
It’s challenging to pinpoint a favourite aspect of the event because every moment was enriching. However, I most cherished the community and support permeating the event. Despite being surrounded by accomplished individuals, there was no ego, only a genuine desire to learn from one another and grow together. The event also provided valuable tools and insights I can apply to my academic and personal life. From effective communication techniques to leadership strategies, I left with a treasure trove of knowledge and skills.
My Experience
As a participant in the 150Leaders Welcome Event, I felt empowered and connected to a community of individuals who share the same values and passion for improving healthcare and positively impacting the world. The event challenged me to step out of my comfort zone, engage with new ideas, and embrace my leadership potential. I was inspired not only by the speakers and mentors but also by my fellow attendees. Their stories and aspirations served as a reminder of the limitless possibilities within healthcare leadership.
In Conclusion
The 150Leaders Welcome Event in Manchester was an experience I will forever cherish. It was an opportunity to learn, grow, and connect with remarkable individuals poised to shape the future of healthcare. If you are passionate about healthcare and aspire to become a leader in this field, I wholeheartedly recommend joining this program. It’s not just an event; it’s the start of a transformative journey of self-discovery and empowerment.
