How ICDP Facilitates Pacific Partnerships with TIS.

Date: Monday, 25 September 2023

In our recent interview with Talent Insight Solutions (TIS), we explored the remarkable collaboration between their business and the International Centre for Democratic Partnerships (ICDP). This partnership has not only yielded award-winning programs but has also contributed significantly to leadership development, networking, and mentorship across the Pacific. In this article, we delve into the details of their collaborative projects, the mutual benefits reaped, and the exciting initiatives on the horizon.

Collaborative Projects

TIS and ICDP embarked on a transformative journey when ICDP recognized the need to revamp their dialogue processes. This was driven by member feedback and the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. TIS stepped up by offering their expertise in professional development training and their collaboration birthed a program of immense significance – Successful Mentoring for Growth and Becoming a Successful Mentor.

Reflecting on the genesis of these programs, TIS shared, “This led us to design the now award-winning program of Successful Mentoring for Growth and Becoming a Successful Mentor. These were two programs that provided tools for those who were being mentored and those that wanted to become a mentor.” These initiatives were piloted in Tonga and subsequently delivered across other Pacific Nations, engaging over 100 participants who completed the training.

Support and Benefits

The partnership between TIS and ICDP has been a mutually enriching experience. Participants in these programs have honed crucial mentoring leadership skills, such as communication, decision-making, conflict resolution, and strategic thinking. These skills are essential for effective leadership across various contexts and have empowered individuals in their professional endeavors.

One remarkable outcome of the collaboration has been increased representation and recognition of leaders from diverse backgrounds and sectors, a pivotal achievement for ICDP. TIS emphasized, “One of the big positives from ICDP has been the focus on increasing participation of those that are not normally recognized as traditional leaders or may be in different sectors.”

The mentorship opportunities provided through these programs have been a catalyst for skill development, capacity building, and knowledge transfer within a culturally safe space. Feedback received has highlighted the tangible benefits experienced by participants. Furthermore, this diversity and inclusion have allowed for varied perspectives and innovative problem-solving approaches, which have had a positive ripple effect throughout the Pacific Connect Community.

Networking opportunities have also flourished as participants connected with mentors, like-minded individuals, and experts in their respective fields. This network of empowered women leaders has become a sustainable force, offering continued support and contributing to their communities and professions.

Future Collaboration

As we look to the future, TIS and ICDP have exciting plans on the horizon. Together, they have applied for a significant grant through the Pacific Community (SPC) for a comprehensive two-year leadership program designed by and for the Pacific network. This program, eagerly anticipated by many, aims to further empower women leaders in the region.

TIS and ICDP have left no stone unturned in ensuring the program’s relevance and effectiveness. TIS mentioned, “We conducted a number of focus groups and surveys to make sure that the leadership program would be something that would be designed and built by the Pacific network for the Pacific network.” The program will encompass four pillars: Strength of Self, People, Identity and Place, Impactful Influence, and Actionable Leadership.

In conclusion, the partnership between Talent Insight Solutions and the International Centre for Democratic Partnerships has not only resulted in award-winning programs but has also catalysed positive change, empowerment, and networking across the Pacific. With the promise of forthcoming initiatives, the future looks even brighter for this dynamic collaboration.