From August 19 to 22, 2024, leaders from the West-Central Africa Division (WAD) gathered in Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire, for the LeadLab Leadership Training event. This high-level event aimed to evaluate the chosen leaders from various fields within the division. Two facilitators from the Adventist General Conference (GC), Dr. Randy Siebold and Dr. Erich Baumgartner, conducted the training, which involved 19 participants receiving qualitative training to enhance their leadership skills.

During this meeting, participants benefited from the expertise of their trainers and greatly appreciated the content of the various topics covered. At the closing ceremony, Robert Osei-Bonsu, WAD president, thanked the event facilitators, participants, and organizers.

The organizers, Dr. Juvenal Balisasa, Education director, and Dr. Sessou Omobonoke, director of Children’s and Women’s Ministries, were praised for their hard work: "You have worked tirelessly behind the scenes. You organized, coordinated, and ensured that every aspect of this training was successfully carried out, and for all that, we say thank you. Your efforts have not gone unnoticed, and your pursuit of excellence has led this training to a better outcome." Osei-Bonsu commented that this training was a wonderful experience for the participants and those who made it possible.

Pastor Robert then expressed his gratitude to the facilitators from Andrews University, thanking them for their valuable contributions: "To our facilitators from Andrews University, we thank you immensely for the wisdom, expertise, and passion you have imparted to us. Thank you also for your commitment, energy, and prayers, from which we have greatly benefited," he said.

Addressing the recipients, Osei-Bonsu stressed the importance of retaining and applying the knowledge acquired during this training, noting that it would be crucial for their development and that of their communities: "The path of leadership is not an easy one. It is a path that requires a lot of energy, courage, and a heart fully submitted to God's will. Through this training, you have been equipped with the necessary tools to accomplish your task, with the fundamental knowledge and spiritual means to lead in a way that reflects the character of Christ. Let me tell you that the powerful tool you have received is not found in books or classrooms but in the power conferred upon you by the Holy Spirit, as stated in Zechariah 4:6, ‘Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit, says the Lord Almighty.’"

The participants' representatives expressed their deep gratitude to Osei-Bonsu, his two immediate collaborators, and all the staff for their sympathy and support throughout the training. They also thanked the organizers of the training, the facilitators, and the GC for their invaluable support.

Furthermore, they thanked the various leaders of their unions, who allowed them to participate in this enriching training. The training concluded with the awarding of certificates, marking the recognition of the skills acquired by the participants.

During Osei-Bonsu's final prayer, he reminded the recipients of their role's importance in the Church's growth and maturity and its institutions. He urged them to be more vigilant and dedicated to God, emphasizing that their spiritual commitment and devotion would be essential for the success of their mission.

About LeadLab

LeadLab is a dynamic leadership development program designed to equip and support Seventh-day Adventist leaders on their journeys as leaders. The initiative is a development of the Global Leadership Institute at Andrews University supported by the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists. This program combines the rich spiritual heritage of the Adventist faith with real-world leadership strategies, offering a unique and comprehensive training experience. LeadLab equips leaders with the competencies to lead and a profound understanding of their role in advancing the mission of preparing people for Jesus' return.

The original article was published on the West-Central Africa Division website.