My Life-Changing Experience at the European Leadership Academy

In October 2022, I embarked on a journey that would forever alter the course of my life. It all began with a chance encounter on the internet, stumbling upon the European Leadership Academy (ELA) and its Women's Academy for Rural Innovation which is a part of Huawei’s broader educational initiative Seeds for the Future. Little did I know that this opportunity would become a transformative chapter in my personal and professional growth.
As I explored the ELA's website, I couldn't help but be drawn to its mission of empowering rural women through digital inclusion. The idea of a programme dedicated to nurturing the potential of women from rural areas was like a dream come true.

However, skepticism crept in as I considered the possibility of it being too good to be true. With only 15 coveted spots available, the odds seemed stacked against me. Even when I found myself on the reserve list, I remained cautiously optimistic. But fate had other plans, and on the day we were set to convene in Spain, I received the call that changed everything. An opportunity that once felt surreal was now a reality.
Upon arriving in Spain, I was greeted by a picturesque setting and a warm community of individuals who shared my passion for rural empowerment. It didn't take long for the initial trepidation to melt away, replaced by the excitement of forging connections with like-minded individuals who would soon become friends for life.

This experience arrived at a juncture in my life where I felt somewhat stuck. Balancing the responsibilities of motherhood and a hectic lifestyle left me questioning the possibilities that lay ahead. This amazing group of people shattered these self-imposed limitations and breathed new life into my aspirations. For the first time in years, I felt a sense of belonging and empowerment that had long eluded me. I discovered a newfound sense of purpose. The positivity and inspiration that permeated every moment of the programme were contagious. We were more than just participants; we were rural changemakers, and our collective energy became a wellspring of motivation, where no one was left behind.

The session on public speaking with Luisa Baldini stands out as a defining moment. Overcoming my fear of addressing a large audience was a formidable challenge, but within the safe and supportive environment of ELA, I found the courage to confront it. This newfound skill was just one of the many ways in which I grew during that transformative week.

The guidance and support from Berta, Nuno, Emina, and all the other wonderful people at ELA and Huawei were instrumental in my personal development. Their mentorship and the inspiring sessions on personal growth towards the end of the week helped us grow as individuals and as a community of empowered women.

My time at the European Leadership Academy was not just a learning experience; it was a journey of self-discovery and empowerment. It reshaped the way I see the world, rekindled my belief in the possibilities within my reach, and ignited a fire within me to create positive change in my community. The experience was outstanding, and I am forever thankful for the opportunity it provided. Moreover, the friendship with my accountability buddies (Magda and Sofie) who continue to inspire me in our monthly video calls, adds a deeply personal dimension to this remarkable journey.

Maren Jennings on 29/09/2023