ELDP eagles emerging leader development program
Class of 2011 – Retreat 2: Change, Conflict & Politics
FEBRUARY 4-7, 2010, Ho Chi Minh
"Surely God is in this program which has taught us things we don't learn at seminary. Thank you!" - James Nagulan
For the first time in the history of ELDP, the Class of 2011 had our second retreat in the city of Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam. If we were to give it another name, we would all agree that Ho Chi Minh could also be called "The City of Motorbikes"!
With the millions of motorbikes, crossing the streets without traffic lights was a new, exciting, and somewhat scary thing for some of us!
"Toxic Leaders are nurtured by toxic followers." Michael Tan, Toxic Leadership
"If we don't reinvent, we become institutionalized. To become greater, every institution needs to constantly renew itself." Peter Chao, Leading In Uncharted Waters
"It's transition that people resist not the change." Lim Peng Soon, The Human Side of Change
"The church must be above politics and political structures. For it to be effective, the church needs reflection, discernment and action." Wong Kim Kong, Navigating the Political Landscape
"Smiling Tigers, Hidden Dragons - Leaders need to create a culture where the dragons can be exposed." John Ng, Conflict & Peacemaking.
"Leaders need value, vison and courage. We need to have all of these attirbutes to become great leaders." Tanri Abeng, Guest speaker and former Minister for State Enterprises during ex-President Suharto and Habibe era.
Besides feasting on great food at each meal, participants were also fed with these gems of wisdom from our faculty. We all certainly walked away with tummies, minds & hearts fully satisfied!
"Highly beneficial to equip church and market place leaders. The good food and fellowship is a great plus!" - Claire Au
Class of 2009 – Retreat 5: Values, Competencies & Decision-Making
APRIL 16-19, 2009, Singapore
"God used ELDP to change my perspective for serving His ministry."
"Very competent lecturers where knowledge & experience are extremely useful in the topics they've handled. Good mix of real-life experiences, case studies and sound biblical teaching on leadership."
"This retreat really hits critical & tough aspects of leadership and very practical with inspiring, real-life examples."
The ELDP Class of 2009 was welcomed with balloons and boxes of candy - a festive celebration of their Commissioning Retreat! It was a special time as each participant looked forward to the final Commissioning Ceremony on April 18, 2009, Saturday.
Excitement and anticipation was in the air. The image was that of a caterpillar emerging from its chrysalis, breaking forth into a magnificent butterfly that speaks of the glory of God with its beauty.
There was much talk about the next step after ELDP - where each would go from here, how they would miss their ELDP classmates, and ways too keep in touch. Plans were made for the alumni, with the possibility of organizing a once-a-year get-together retreat.
One of the definitive highlights of this retreat was a field trip to Northlight School, where the participants got to see first-hand an organization that has strong values, vision & programs.
The other highlight was a session with Jason Wong, founder of the Yellow Ribbon Project. His teaching was inspiring, to say the least, and it brought the curriculum to a whole new level. Many were galvanized into deeper reflection and action, and roused to pursue intimacy with God and catch His vision for their lives.
Teachings from the 3 directors of Eagles - Peter, John & Michael - further equipped these emerging leaders for the next step of their journey. They were also blessed with sessions with Sam Lam & Neo Boon Siong, learning more about strategies & leadership competencies.
What a way to end the first part of the ELDP journey; for the Class of 2009, the story's only just getting started!
Class of 2010 – Retreat 4: Coaching, Community and Succession Planning
MARCH 19 – 22, 2009, Phuket
The 20 participants of class 2010 gathered in Phuket for their fourth retreat which they found brimming with inspiration encouragement and fun as they learned about coaching, community and succession planning. The class bonded through their sharing of leadership challenges and struggles and through their prayers for one another over personal and ministry concerns.
Here is a sampling of participants' feedback on key lessons and perspectives gleaned from the retreat.
"The teaching and relationships forged at this retreat were invaluable to me. The sharpening of mind and heart by the leaders and participants will help me create something of significance with my team." - Amy Davison, Thailand
"This is really a great retreat. The balance between biblical perspectives and professional practices, the framework, theory and toolkit really helped us not only to know the 'what' and "why" deeply, but also the ‘how’ in practicing the concepts." - Budianto, Indonesia
Peter Chao's message on Kingdom Estuary reflected on the importance in synergizing the efforts of younger and older leaders. In his closing, Peter challenged all to offer themselves afresh to God and commit their lives as effective leaders in leaving a strong legacy.
Sam Lam offered practical insights on coaching high performers and underperformers. He stressed that good leaders were expected to produce great results, make good judgments that lead to effective decisions, and have the ability to learn from experiences to improve their performance.
Lawrence Leong, shared his experience in building a crisis team equipped with problem solving skills. His topic, Leading in Crisis, greatly encouraged those who were navigating through the current downturn.
Others like Dr John Ng highlighted issues in measuring performance as well as the biblical mandate and perspectives in succession planning. Michael Tan focused on the need for leadership and accountability to co-exist.
Everyone came away deeply enriched by the multi-faceted insights, wisdom and knowledge that the ELDP faculty and participants had imparted through the lectures, dialogues and discussions. Many could not wait for the fifth retreat in 2010 at which they will gather to learn as well as graduate together.
Class of 2011 – Retreat 1: Person, Perspective, Performance & Partnership
JANUARY 8-11, 2009, Bangkok
"The Eagles Emerging Leaders Development Program is a unique opportunity to share your leadership journey with seasoned leaders who have a heart to lift up young leaders & see them reach their potential." - Peter Geizer
The new ELDP Class of 2011 got off to an awesome start at their first retreat in Bangkok, Thailand. How apt that the retreat was held in the "Land of Smiles", for there certainly was a lot to smile about!
It was an interesting mix of cultures in this group of 20 men and women of God. With participants from Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, China, Malaysia and Australia, there was never a dull moment with this group! They warmed up to each other quickly despite cultural and language differences, and it was heartwarming to see them in action, sharing their lives and praying for each other.
Much food for thought was inspired for each participant’s leadership journey as they learnt that their role as leaders was, first and foremost, to glorify God’s name. Looking at the examples of leaders in the Bible, it’s undeniably true that a God-centered leader is a leader best equipped for the challenges of leading and living.
These leaders also learnt to manage expectations, sustain energy by recognizing what drains them, team leadership and what breaks and builds their team. They even got a hand at the MBTI - discovering their personality types, and how that relates to leading a team of different personalities.
The last night ended on a high note with a Leadership Dialogue, and we were joined by 15 specially-invited guests from Thailand. This was followed by a midnight trip down to the night market, where some of the delegates got to experience the authentic Thai experience of bargaining and... eating Mango Sticky Rice!
"The ELDP is a great learning experience where you put all your responsibilities behind, take a step back, and re-look, relearn and refocus what you have been doing." - Kieran Chew
What a fantabulous beginning to a 3 year journey; we're loving it already!
Class of 2008 – Retreat 5: Values, Competencies, and Decision-Making
OCTOBER 14-16, 2008, Singapore
"ELDP should be a lifelong program for every leader."
"The ELDP program is extraordinary. Not only have I benefited from the wealth of management experience from the faculty members, but I was also ministered to by the sharing of other transformative leaders who were guest speakers at the different retreats."
It was a great closing retreat, a fitting finale for the first ever ELDP class to complete the three year leadership program.
During their final time together as the Class of 2008, the twenty-six participants were very much inspired by the sharing from Jason Wong, former Deputy Director of Singapore Prison, and Chua Yen Ching, Principal of Northlight School, who both brought home the message that ordinary Christians can do extraordinary work! Certainly clear evidence of God’s faithfulness for all leaders.
It was an intensive three days where classmates learned what it means to create, implement and sustain values, and to develop and execute strategies in their organizations. A full day was allotted to Decision Making, taught by Sam Lam and Michael Tan. Animated discussions and differing viewpoints proved it was a session that few will forget.
As was repeated so often throughout the retreat, this is not the end but only the beginning of a new chapter, and as aptly remarked by one participant, "I feel that my leadership journey has just begun since I attended the ELDP."
The retreat closed with a big bang – the commissioning banquet! Graduation certificates were presented, awards and speeches delivered, and delicious food and conversation were enjoyed by all. Please enjoy the photos below.
Class of 2009 – Retreat 4: Coaching, Community, and Succession Planning
OCTOBER 18-21, 2008, Thailand
"ELDP should be a lifelong program for every leader."
The class of 2009 enjoyed their 4th retreat at the Alpina Phuket Nalina Resort & Spa from October 18-21, 2008. Our theme focused on Coaching, Community & Succession Planning whereby the participants felt it was a great opportunity for all leaders to learn, be encouraged and grow.
"The community & fellowship with this cohort are deeply refreshing, encouraging and an oasis from work and ministry."
"I am in transition in my organization where I have been serving in the present position for 8 years. It is amazing that I have learnt several things that related to my situation. It really helps me stretch my perspectives."
"Not just academic & conceptual but very relevant to real life leadership."
"This retreat is critical for those who want their organizations to move from 90% of all organizations that do not have succession plans to the 10% that do."
"I got leadership best practice from this retreat."
Lawrence Leong, Director of F1 Singapore, was indeed outstanding as he shared with us about “Leading in Crisis”. His insights and experiences will help us navigate through challenges when faced with crises in our organizations.
Michael was again at his best as he led in the discussion on issues of leadership discipline and accountability. The case studies about Gordon McDonald and the Catholic priest were really relevant and practical.
Peter’s motivational challenges on “Leadership Performance” and “Leadership Estuaries” (Transitional Leadership) were of great impact as well.
Many of us were also blessed by Sam’s very practical skill-development session on coaching. The discussion on coaching underperformers and retaining high performers was enlightening.
Class of 2010 – Retreat 3: Heart, Soul, and Mind
SEPTEMBER 18-21, 2008 @ ChiangMai, Thailand
It was a great time of learning and bonding for the ELDP 2010 cohort. Some participants shared with us their feelings and thoughts:
"I feel so warm and safe with the ELDP community. Attending the retreat is like a snake that has swallowed an elephant. It would take many months to digest."
"I love this retreat. I have the time to reflect on my life and ministry so that I can be more emotionally healthy."
A participant commented that the "Session on forming good habits of mind, relationship and focus were extremely useful," and this life discipline cannot be over emphasized. The importance of being emotionally healthy and on guard against sexual temptations is key to remaining effective as leaders.
Four morning devotions were spent gleaning invaluable lessons from the life of Joseph - Genesis 50:20 summed it all, "You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good...", and as Glenn Knight, who shared his life testimony said, "God has a purpose for every step of my life - I wouldn't want to live it any differently".
We remain humble as we recognize we are living under God's canopy of grace.
Class of 2008 – Retreat 4: Coaching, Community, and Succession Planning
APRIL 17 - 20, 2008 @ Bali, Indonesia
The class of 2008 gathered for their 4th retreat in Bali to consider the theme Coaching, Community & Succession Planning. This community of emerging leaders were inspired by the teaching sessions from the faculty and especially from the sharing with one other about their leadership journey. Peter Chao led the retreat by helping the leaders to meditate on their leadership role by using the ‘Estuary’ metaphor to synergize the effort of the younger and older leaders. Sam Lam provided a useful tool kit for the leader’s role as a coach who most found very useful in their understanding as a coach. This retreat has enlarged their thinking horizon and help the leaders to be a more effective person both in church and marketplace. Class of 2008 is looking forward to their last retreat and graduation in October 2008.
"Lessons learnt from Peter Chao provided great perspectives for me in this retreat. Understanding Leadership is not a 'one-size-fit-all and helps me to lead and handle issues in my ministry differently. I will also take back and share with my team on Coaching and how does a Success Planning looks like. There are loads to do and for me to mentally reflect and run thru all that I have learnt again when I’m home. Thank you it has been invaluable."
Class of 2009 – Retreat 3: Heart, Soul, and Mind
April 21 - 24, 2008 @ Bali, Indonesia
The second class of emerging leaders in the ELDP program met for their third retreat on the theme of Heart, Soul, and Mind. Peter Chao conducted a series of four messages on the life of Joseph highlighting some of the moral and ethical dilemmas that the patriach faced in his journey as an emerging leader in Egypt. Other issues such as the emotional health of the leader, derailment factors and effective thinking processes were taught by faculty members John Ng, Sam Lam, and Michael Tan. The retreat also featured Paul McGee who did a one-day session on his S.U.M.O (Shut Up Move On) principles for responding positively to adversity.
"The retreat made me reflect on my life thus far and I'm already seeing God work in me - in heart, mind and soul", Wang Chang Yuin from Singapore remarked. Susan Koh who accompanied her husband for the first time at such a retreat said, "ELDP is committed to train leaders for the future. This retreat has made available invaluable material for leadership development in an excellent environment with engaging dialogues and lectures."
Class of 2010 – Retreat 2: Change, Conflict, and Politics
March 27 - 30, 2008 @ Bali, Indonesia
The first morning saw a happy reunion of participants after six months apart. Peter Chao kick-started the program with an inspirational session on "Leading in Uncharted Waters", where participants were challenged to explore "Blue Ocean" strategies - to reach untapped markets, and meet unmet needs. The key to successful Change Management was shared by Lim Peng Soon. Herein lies the answer - to focus on Managing the Transition. While "change" is the external event, "transition" is the internal psychological reorientation a person goes through. Constant two way communication on both real and perceived transitory concerns, cannot be over-emphasized!
Michael Tan intoxicated us with lessons on "Organizational Politics and Toxic Leadership". Truth be told, everyone is involved in politics. The differentiating factor is how leaders are to practice good politics and lead from the heart. An animated series of teachings on "Conflict and Peacemaking" was delivered by John Ng. We are, first and foremost, to be peacemakers like our Lord Jesus. To come out of conflicts a stronger person, we should endeavor to align interests and invest on strengthening relationships.
The program ended with a heart-changing sharing by Peter Chao, whose key exhortation was, "Cultivate a generous spirit by being a Forgiving Leader". To forgive is to help ourselves remove poison from our hearts - how wise are the commands of our loving Father.
Indeed, the Eagles 4-P Leadership Model, which hinges on the importance of the leader being a God-centered Person resonated throughout the entire 3.5 day program. Only with God can we achieve such a great calling. With over 13 communal meals and many group presentations, great fun and bonding was certainly not lacking.
