Adaptive Leadership Dialogue
To round out the month of April, ICDP hosted the highly anticipated online talanoa on Adaptive Leadership on 30th April 2024. The dialogue was a huge success with nearly 30 members of the ICDP network convening to learn about the leadership style and hear from ICDP Director Catherine Fritz-Kalish AM.
ICDP Hub Coordinator Shurti Kumar interviewed Catherine, who shared invaluable insight into how she employs the adaptive leadership style in the workplace and everyday life. The interview was more of a seamless conversation between Catherine and Shurti. The women bounced off each other’s comments and ideas resulting in a dynamic and thought-provoking discussion.
Catherine discussed her circumstances of working in a small team of people and iterated her favour of working collaboratively. Catherine identified the key to adaptability and resilience through the support of family and work colleagues.
Participants were encouraged to share their own experiences of leadership both in the workplace and in everyday life. Annjelyn Shalvina offered the following insight:
“Adaptive leadership can mean being a leader and also being in a position to be led. Empowering others and knowing that no one learns without making mistakes…and allowing for it…being in a position to “learn” from anyone and everyone.”
Shurti echoed this call for leaders to be willing to allow those in their team (or family) to be challenged. This allows the room for individuals to demonstrate the skills they possess.
The interview was followed by an open Q+A where participants could ask questions to both Catherine and Shurti. Questions were focused on the applicability of adaptive leadership across different cultural contexts. Catherine encouraged female participants to not be dissuaded from leadership but instead to build a strong support system of men and women. It is in building these support systems that encourages growth and adaptation.
Participants also discussed how cultural norms can be hurdles that need to be overcome, particularly for women in the Pacific region. Several participants shared their own experiences of “leading” in these environments, discussing how they adapted their methods to achieve success.
Participating in an ICDP event where the community is well and truly present is always a joy! The dialogue ended with closing thanks from Shurti and Catherine. Participants left feeling well-informed and grateful for the learning experience.
We look forward to hosting everyone online for another session soon!
