The program spanned six months and covered various topics, including communication, power dynamics, coaching, and governance.
PAFRAS nominated two members of its Expert by Experience (EBE) group to participate in the Emerging Leaders program, organised by Refugee Action and delivered by Caplor Horizons. The program spanned six months and covered various topics, including communication, power dynamics, coaching, and governance.
The program included participants from different Organisations working with people seeking sanctuary, showcasing diversity in race, ethnicity, countries of origin, knowledge, and experiences. The extended duration and some in-person sessions (in London and Liverpool) facilitated deeper involvement and idea sharing among participants. It fostered not only individual relationships but also Organisational connections.
Interactive and engaging exercises led by Caplor Horizons trainers enriched the program. A notable exercise involved participants selecting cards with positive qualities to describe their peers, highlighting the depth of relationships built during the training. This exercise demonstrated how people perceive each other and the underutilised strengths individuals possess, often due to prolonged asylum waiting times.
The program provided a safe space for learning, idea sharing, and networking. While specific examples cannot be shared due to confidentiality, the Emerging Leaders program exemplifies the significance of partnerships between Organisations, whether national or local, and the benefits of networking among smaller Organisations.
The program showcased the value of training opportunities for EBE members, empowering them to learn, network, enhance their capabilities, and remain motivated to contribute to EBE groups. It underscores the importance of collaboration and networking across Organisations, fostering a sense of community and shared expertise. PAFRAS’s participation in the Emerging Leaders program illustrates the positive impact of such initiatives in empowering EBEs and strengthening connections within the sanctuary-seeking community.