The challenges brought on by COVID-19 have magnified the need for sound and steady leadership. Many have learned during these difficult times that effective leadership is required at all times, but leadership is a learned and refined skill.
To help participants enhance their leadership skills, senior volunteers of BAPS Charities Canada organized a webinar on April 9, 2021, on ‘Leading Consciously’. More than 600 participants from across Canada, young and old, joined virtually for an engaging presentation and discussion on leadership.
The webinar focused on the importance of conscientious leadership. Maintaining self-awareness, understanding the perspective of others, considering the impact of decisions on others, taking the higher ground and being open to compromise were emphasized in a comprehensive approach to effective leadership, positive influence and healthy team dynamics.
After the thought-provoking presentation, participants heard about leadership from the perspective of seniors and youth professionals in the field through a panel discussion. The panellists included Prakash Patel, Executive Vice President for a national private healthcare provider and Winston Mapp, retired Captain from the Toronto Fire Services and co-founder of the Walnut Foundation and Free for all Foundation. The panellists led a lively and insightful discussion, answering the participants’ questions about compassion in leadership.
Yogesh Patel, President of BAPS Charities, commented, “The event was organized seamlessly by the collaboration between the senior and youth volunteers. BAPS Charities plans to organize other virtual events to explore topics and engage the community.”
