This past week, The Salvation Army Southern Africa Territory hosted a Leadership Development Training, bringing together officers from across the Territory for a time of equipping, growth, and spiritual encouragement. The theme for the training was “Defined and Distinctive Leadership for the 21st Century.”
Colonels Bishow and Pamela Samhika, serving at the International College for Officers in London, were the guest facilitators for the week. Through their teaching and interaction, they guided participants through key leadership themes with clarity, depth, and a strong spiritual foundation.
Each day began with devotions, led by Lieut-Colonels Thomas and Doris Dlamini, setting a Christ-centred tone for all that followed. Keynote addresses were delivered by Commissioner Torben Eliasen, Territorial Commander, and Commissioner Deise Eliasen, Territorial President for Women’s Ministries. Their messages challenged and inspired participants to embrace leadership that is rooted in Scripture, shaped by character, and responsive to the complexities of our time.
Across the three days, participants engaged with a range of topics designed to develop both personal and practical leadership capacity. These included:
- Developing Me
- Leading Differently
- Exemplary Leadership (Following the Perfect Example of Christ)
- Creating an Outstanding Team
- Leading Effectively
- Conflict Management
- Organisational Knowledge and Comprehension
The training concluded with a closing session led by Lieut-Colonel Themba Mahlobo, Chief Secretary, and Lieut-Colonel Nokuthula Mahlobo, Territorial Secretary for Women’s Ministries. The Chief Secretary encouraged everyone to lead as distinctive leaders in the 21st century, embracing humility and integrity. He reminded attendees that each person has a vital role to play in advancing God’s kingdom and urged them to build one another up rather than tear each other down.
This week of leadership development involved learning new concepts and it was a call to lead with integrity, faith, and boldness in the name of Christ. We give thanks for this opportunity to grow together as we serve God in mission in Southern Africa and beyond.
