We are proud to share learning and reflections from the successful conclusion of two online leadership programmes with leaders in Eastern DRC.
Over recent months, we worked with two cohorts: leaders from six dynamic civil society organisations working around Kahuzi-Biega National Park to promote community-led forest governance, and members of the Indigenous Peoples’ Ambassador Circle — Indigenous leaders who play a vital role in shaping and delivering our Indigenous Peoples’ leadership programme.
As conflict escalated across North and South Kivu, both programmes had to adapt rapidly. Together with our partners, we made the collective decision to move fully online in early 2025, ensuring continuity of learning, connection and support in an extremely challenging context.
Can online leadership training really be transformative?
We are often asked how leadership development can happen through a screen — especially in regions where internet access and power supply are unreliable. While online learning can never fully replace the depth of in-person connection, our experience shows that real transformation is possible when key ingredients are in place.
These programmes demonstrated the power of:
- Strong participant commitment and trust, built through long-term partnerships
- Highly skilled online facilitators, with specialised experience in virtual learning
- Dedicated learning platforms, including our Moodle-based Baraza platform for flexible, supported learning
- Continuous adaptation, tailoring pace and format to the realities participants face
Despite disruption and uncertainty, engagement remained high — a testament to the leaders’ determination and shared purpose.
Leadership from within: Indigenous Peoples’ Ambassador Circle
This programme focused on leading self, managing stress and nurturing well-being, delivered in partnership with Capacitar International. The closing ceremony was deeply emotional, with powerful reflections on personal growth and renewed purpose.
“It feels as if I’ve reached the deepest part of myself,” shared one participant. “I now find myself calmer, more confident, and able to listen before reacting.”
Faradja N. shared: “Before, I often felt powerless in moments of tension. Today, I take a deep breath, step back, and speak gently. Even my children have noticed the difference.”
Prince N. added: “This training has rekindled my confidence. I’ve started guiding young people in managing their emotions. I now understand that leadership truly begins within.”
“We have gone through moments of fear, but this circle taught me not to be trapped by fear. Now, I want to be a light in my community,” shared Germaine F. Her colleague Ladislas W. added: “I feel a new inner peace. It pushes me to engage in dialogue rather than run away from conflict.”
Strengthening leadership for community and environment
At the same time, CSO partners in the Kahuzi-Biega project completed an eight-week online leadership programme combining self-paced learning on Baraza with live Zoom sessions. Participants shared how the training reshaped both their leadership practice and daily lives.
“I have understood that to lead effectively, one must first learn to manage their own emotions, then recognize those of others in order to build relationships based on trust and mutual respect.” shared Fiston, a leader from one IP-led CSO.
Prince, leader of MERDC in Bukavu, reflected: “My professional, emotional, and social life has significantly improved because I have been able to put into practice the knowledge gained from this training. Whether in team meetings, family discussions, or social interactions, I am gradually applying these concepts, which strengthens the quality of my relationships with others.”
For Sifa, the programme redefined leadership itself: “Today, I see leadership as a skill that must be nurtured daily. I keep reading, learning, and engaging with other leaders to improve my style and adapt it to different contexts. This journey gives me confidence and reminds me that leading is, above all, about serving and guiding others toward collective success.”
Celebrating 20 graduates — and a message of hope
These programmes took place amid ongoing conflict and uncertainty. Yet the commitment of civil society and Indigenous leaders to strengthen their organisations, care for their communities, and protect their environment offers a powerful message of hope.
Leadership can flourish even in the most fragile contexts — grounded in resilience, empathy and collaboration.
We congratulate all 20 graduates and commend their courage, commitment and positive energy. Well Grounded remains dedicated to supporting their continued leadership journey, strengthening environmental advocacy and community resilience across the Congo Basin.
