Published on: March 29, 2024

Rontu Sangma (Regional Facilitator, Pallium India) writes:

The Compassionate Leadership Fellowship (CLF) is a beacon of hope in the field of palliative care. This transformative program has been brought to life through the collaborative efforts of esteemed partners including the Believers Church Medical College Hospital (BCMCH), Cairdeas International Palliative Care Trust (Cairdeas IPCT), Global Health Academy, University of Edinburgh (UoE), the Indian Association of Palliative Care (IAPC), and RMD Trust. This is a year-long advanced leadership program to inspire, empower, influence, and transform future leaders in the field of palliative care.

Dr. Sunil Kumar M M, Dr. Arjun Devarajan and I attended this program, from Pallium India.

A Unique Learning Experience

The CLF program is structured in a blended learning modular format. It comprises three modules, with Modules 1 and 3 being six-day in-person sessions held at BCMCH in Thiruvalla, Kerala. These modules are complemented by Module 2, which consists of monthly online sessions. This structure ensures a comprehensive learning experience, blending traditional classroom teaching with the flexibility of online learning.

The Power of Mentorship

A key component of the CLF program is its mentorship program. This program is integral to its transformational learning design. We are fortunate to have experienced mentors who participated in all training events and provided one-on-one online guidance. This mentorship program provides Fellows with invaluable guidance and support from experienced professionals in the field.

The Inaugural Ceremony

The official beginning of the CLF was marked on February 18, 2024, with an inauguration ceremony filled with music, prayers, and calls to compassionate care and leadership. The first CLF cohort proudly commenced with 19 Fellows (16 from India and 3 from Rwanda, Kenya, and Nepal) and 13 Mentors, with unwavering support from all partners involved.

The Journey Begins

The first in-person module (February 19-24, 2024) facilitated an exploration of leadership characteristics and self-understanding as a leader. The program employs the widely recognized Leadership Development Index, which outlines five exemplary characteristics for effective leadership.

A Personal Transformation

As a Fellow of the CLF program and an MBA graduate, I had the opportunity to apply my management knowledge and skills in a healthcare setting, thereby enhancing my leadership capabilities. The program emphasizes self-awareness, and through tools like the Myers Briggs Type Indicator and the KELP tool, I gained deeper insights into my personality, learning style, and leadership style. This understanding has been instrumental in my personal and professional growth.

Building Connections

Being a part of the CLF program has also allowed me to connect with other Fellows and Mentors from different parts of the world, fostering opportunities for future collaborations and learning.

Looking Ahead

Our time together in February 2024 culminated in a Leadership Development Plan (LDP), which Fellows will finalize in sessions with their Mentor. In addition to personal development planning, the Fellows agreed to plan leadership activities that adhere to the S.M.A.R.T.P.A. guidelines (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound, Person-responsible, and including Accountability).

The development of compassionate leaders is fundamental to the provision of quality palliative care for all. With the commencement of the CLF program, we are poised to make significant strides in this direction. As we look to the future, we are reminded that the sky is the limit.