This video was posted on the Citizen Leader Lab Youtube channel.
1. The Core Philosophy of Citizen Leader Lab: Learn, Act, Become
The Citizen Leader Lab defines itself as a disruptor in leadership development [06:58]. Their philosophy is centered on the principle of “connection before curriculum” [01:08], focusing on people first to drive change.
- Disruptive Leadership: The work is described as learning, unlearning, and relearning [07:09], taking leaders beyond a theoretical journey and fostering a deep sense of care for the sectors they work in [07:20].
- The “Doing Word”: The name itself—Citizen Leader Lab, Learn, Act, Become—emphasizes action and measurable change in public sector institutions [01:17].
2. Transforming School Culture through Inclusive Leadership
The video showcases Principal Rihanna’s leadership style, which embodies the program’s ideals. Her approach has fundamentally shifted the learning experience for students.
- Student-Centered Improvements: The principal has focused on building a more connective and inclusive relationship with students [02:27]. This involves taking their opinions and suggestions, leading to tangible improvements like the new media center and better-enjoyed excursions [02:44].
- Boosting Engagement through Peer Learning: Mrs. Jardine encouraged peer-to-peer teaching [03:00], where students are seated in block formations to engage, speak, and help each other [03:15].
- Moving Learning Beyond the Classroom: One student expressed thanks that the school pushed learning out of the classroom [04:15], introducing competitions and opportunities like the Escom Expo, which provide extra qualifications and a greater appreciation for education [04:22].
3. The Power of “Time to Think” for Effective Leadership
A key takeaway for the principal from the program was the “time to think” module [00:59], which has changed her approach to dealing with staff and student challenges.
- The Power of Listening: The natural instinct to solve problems immediately was replaced by a strategy of listening and inquiring [05:46].
- Fostering Ownership: By giving a teacher, head of department, or learner the space to talk and the space to think [06:34], they realize they already have the solution. The result is a crucial benefit: ownership of the outcome [06:42]. This prevents the situation where an individual blames the leader for a suggested solution that fails.
4. The Ripple Effect of Celebrating Small Successes
A practical leadership strategy shared is the importance of celebrating every small success, not just focusing on the big picture [05:13].