On 28 November 2024, the Durban University of Technology (DUT) Gender Forum hosted the Gender-Inclusive Leadership and Mentorship Workshop at the Riverside Hotel and Conference Centre, marking a pivotal step toward promoting inclusivity and empowerment.
The workshop was expertly facilitated by Mr Anil Salick, from Synergistic Outcomes renowned for his dynamic approach to leadership development. His ability to translate complex concepts into actionable insights captivated attendees, equipping them with tools to excel as inclusive leaders and mentors in their spheres of influence.
The session began with a deep dive into gender-inclusive leadership, unpacking its definition, significance, and far-reaching benefits. Mr Salick highlighted the role of inclusivity in fostering employee engagement, encouraging diverse perspectives, and driving improved organisational performance. Participants gained a clear understanding of how inclusivity serves as a cornerstone for building thriving, innovative workplaces.
Central to the discussion was the cultivation of key leadership skills such as active listening, empathy, and constructive feedback. Mr. Salick also provided valuable strategies for raising awareness of unconscious biases and mitigating their impact, fostering a more equitable environment for all.
The workshop highlighted the pivotal role of mentorship in fostering both professional and personal growth, emphasising its transformative impact on individuals and communities. Participants delved into the multifaceted benefits of mentorship, not only for mentees but also for mentors, who gain valuable insights and fulfilment through the process. Mr Anil Salick introduced various mentorship models, ranging from structured formal programmes to flexible informal arrangements, showcasing their adaptability to diverse needs. He further illustrated how mentorship serves as a powerful tool for career progression, skill development, and empowerment, inspiring attendees to view it as more than guidance but as a dynamic journey that strengthens resilience and fosters collective growth.
A standout segment of the workshop focused on designing and sustaining effective mentorship programs, providing participants with actionable tools to create initiatives that deliver meaningful impact. The session emphasised the importance of aligning mentorship efforts with organisational goals and included detailed guidance on key elements such as establishing clear criteria for matching mentors and mentees to ensure compatibility and synergy. Participants also explored robust frameworks for designing mentorship programs tailored to specific contexts and objectives, alongside strategies for evaluating their effectiveness to ensure long-term success and adaptability.
The concluding session focused on the importance of networking and allyship. Gender Forum Members learned how to identify potential allies and mentors within their communities and nurture these relationships for long-term collaboration and mutual growth.
The workshop left participants energised and equipped with actionable strategies to lead inclusively and champion mentorship within their spheres of influence. This training highlights, the Gender Forum’s commitment to advancing gender equity and empowering its members to drive meaningful change.
This transformative event underscores DUT’s role as a trailblazer in fostering inclusive, forward-thinking leadership and mentorship models, paving the way for a brighter, more equitable future.
Pictured: Attendees at the Gender Forum workshop.
The Gender Forum EXCO
