Allied Health senior leaders who participated in the workshop, Self-leadership in changing times.

EQ vital in growing leadership knowledge and skills

Apr 29, 2024

In the rapidly evolving healthcare landscape, leadership isn’t just about guiding teams through challenges; it’s about navigating personal growth amidst constant change.

On March 28, Allied Health Professionals from across MNCLHD delved into “Self-Leadership in Changing Times” at a one-day workshop at Kempsey RSL.

The workshop was sponsored by a HETI Allied Health Workplace Learning Grant, to provide senior and emerging leaders with knowledge and skills in resilience, self-awareness, and self-regulation to be more effective in their leadership roles.

Susan Pearse from the ChangeRoom and the MNCLHD Organisational Development team facilitated sessions designed to equip allied health professionals with tangible tools and transformative perspectives for enhancing self-leadership.

Attendees were welcomed by Director Integrated Care Allied Health and Community Services, Jill Wong, and the District Manager of Allied Health, Kate Meredith.

Through practical exercises and discussions, participants were introduced to simple yet profound practices for centring oneself during stressful, evolving or critical times. Tools included six-second pauses, active listening, and how to use all five senses to enhance attentiveness. Drawing on the work of researcher Brené Brown, leaders explored the realm of emotional literacy.

Throughout the sessions, participants showed openness and engagement, and actively contributed, demonstrating a collective commitment to growth and excellence in leadership.

Their enthusiasm and dedication were integral to the workshop’s success, which fostered an environment of collaboration and learning.

Participant feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with participants stating they appreciated this learning opportunity which was extremely relevant and useful in their roles.

This event marked the inaugural bringing together of the district Allied Health leadership group, a significant milestone in fostering collaboration, knowledge-sharing and a ‘one district’ approach to Allied Health.

Special thanks to HETI for supporting the grant submission and the Organisational Development team for their invaluable support in planning and facilitating the event, ensuring its success and impact.

Thanks also to Robyn Stanning a senior Allied Health leader who researched, proposed, and gained the grant funding to enable this inaugural event. 

As healthcare continues to evolve, the cultivation of emotional intelligence and resilience will undoubtedly be pillars of effective leadership for local Allied Health leaders. Our leaders are committed to ongoing learning and development to support high-performing Allied Health teams.