Written by Regan Savage, Southern Cross Healthcare
It was with a sense of apprehension that I arrived at the venue for our first NZLP retreat. I think everyone felt similarly – curious, nervous, not yet letting go of all the noise of work and daily lives, eager to engage in a process that had mostly been described as “unlike any course you’ve ever been on”.
As we got underway, I struggled to slow down and turn off the internal chatter about all the other things I should be doing, could be doing, hadn’t done. But on day two, I discovered the power of a circle of strangers, and both the intention and the serendipity of the NZLP formula.
As we formed our ako (small learning) groups I noticed how my group had been crafted together in a way that accentuated our differences but also our similarities. As time went on, we drew together as a wider cohort too, building solidarity as a group that supported individuals in unique ways at different times.
We had our first external speakers come in, and members of the class of ’22, who were all open-hearted, challenging and inspiring in how they spoke to us about their experiences of making change and having an impact, and the work left to do.
And lastly our launch event on the Friday night, which was filled with waiata, generous kōrero, and the aroha of gathered whānau as well as Leadership NZ founders, directors, staff, ushering us onwards on a journey where each of our destinations are still wonderfully unknown.
Since the retreat I have focused my practice on staying calm to maintain the best chance of wisdom, opening space for others and listening better, and taking action on things that matter to relationships.
One week out from the second retreat I can’t wait to get back into the circle of trust of 25-odd former strangers who are equally committed to growth and positive impact for Aotearoa.