In a program hosted by Women LEAD, NLA led a session entitled “Demystifying Leadership” as part of the Young Women’s Political Leadership Course (YWPLC). The Young Women’s Political Leadership Course (YWPLC), organized by Women LEAD Nepal, is a year-long program designed to equip young Nepali women with the knowledge, skills, and experience to become active leaders and agents of change in politics.
In the session entitled Demystifying Leadership, Dr. Malla guided participants through an in-depth exploration of what it truly means to be a leader. The discussion began with a fundamental question of who is a leader. The question encouraged participants to challenge conventional definitions and recognize leadership as a practice rather than merely a position. Dr. Malla distinguished between authority and leading, highlighting that while authority often comes from an official title or role, leadership is about influencing and mobilizing others toward a shared purpose, regardless of formal power.
The session also examined the difference between formal and informal authority, emphasizing that leadership can emerge both within and beyond recognized structures. Dr. Malla introduced the idea of the faces of danger that leaders may encounter, from resistance to change to personal and political risks, and discussed strategies for staying alive during the dangers of leading, focusing on resilience, adaptability, and self-awareness.
By combining practical insights with reflective discussion, the session helped participants develop a deeper understanding of the dynamics of leadership in real-world contexts. The adaptive leadership approach encouraged them to see leadership as a courageous act that requires both vision and vigilance, particularly in environments where the stakes are high and there are numerous uncertainties.
(November 2023)