Chamber continues to host open days in collaboration with Leadership with Horses programme
Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC) has now hosted two exclusive open days for its 1813 members, highlighting the benefits of developing leaders through the transformative programme of Leadership with Horses.
The event, in collaboration with Jude Jennison, the founder of Leaders by Nature, provides Chamber members with valuable insights into enhancing leadership and team skills.
The second open day was held last week with the participation of 1813 members and Chamber staff, providing a hands-on experience working with horses to understand leadership and team behaviours.
Participants had the chance to engage with horses as guides and teachers, exploring the profound connections between human and equine behaviour. The open day was facilitated by Jude Jennison, an experienced leadership development and team coach.
Thorogood and Associates consultant Neil Thorogood was one of the members who joined the event. He said: “The open day was a brilliant experience for any leader or aspiring leader.
“There were too many learning points to list here, but the whole exercise challenged the leadership styles and provided us all with some new perspectives. Who would have thought a morning leading horses would uncover so much about ourselves. ”
Meanwhile Ali Mahmood, founder of In Touch With said: “It was awe-inspiring to see how these majestic creatures responded and connected with Jude, picking up on every nuance. Their ability to sense emotions and intentions astounded me, and I realized the importance of being aware of our own non-verbal cues in our interactions with others.
“Not only did this experience help me with my fear of animals, They mirrored my energy and emotions, reflecting back to me when I was being authentic and when I was holding back. Through their gentle nudges and guidance, they encouraged me to embrace vulnerability and step into my own power.
This journey has been a catalyst for personal growth, increasing my confidence in ways I never thought possible. ”
The event took place at a beautiful equine facility in Staffordshire, providing an ideal setting for participants to immerse themselves in nature and engage in experiential learning.
Jude Jennison expressed her excitement about the collaboration: “Horses are extraordinary creatures that reveal our nonverbal behaviours. As such, they teach us valuable lessons about leadership, communication, and emotional intelligence. Everyone learned something that they could implement immediately in their own working environment."
Tariq Shaikh, principal and managing director of Gensler said: I really didn 't know what to expect, and having not really ever had much contact with horses before, was somewhat apprehensive.
“However, Jude gave us a great briefing so when we were with the horses, everything felt fine. Leadership lessons from the experience touched on intent, purpose, teamwork and confidence.
“To gain so much over such a short space of time was both surprising and enlightening. I feel that leaders in our organisation would take away a new understanding of who they are and how to work better with each other after an experience like this, and look forward to seeing the results. ”
Leaders by Nature is a renowned leadership development company founded by Jude, bestselling author, speaker and leadership coach.
If you 'd like to understand how working with horses provides transformative learning to enhance leadership skills and improve team communication, contact Jude on 07584 248822.