Beyond the Summit: A Journey of Leadership and Growth
Outbound Leadership Training Program
17th January, 2025
The Department of Psychology at SNDT Women’s University, Churchgate organized an Outbound Leadership Training Program in the form of a trek to Kothaligad (Peth) on the 17th of January, 2025. This engaging program brought together students from the MA Psychology Part I and Part II classes, accompanied by the esteemed Head of Department of Psychology, Dr. Nilesh Thakre, along with faculty members of the department, Ms. Chaitri Dave, Ms. Durgesh Badsewal, Ms. Tasmiya Kazi and Ms. Akshata Joshi. The program was led by trek expert and guide Mr. Birdy. A total attendance of 50 students attended the program, where they were divided into 5 teams each having respective teacher in-charge and a team leader.
The outbound leadership trek provided students with a rigorous yet transformative experience, emphasizing endurance, adaptability, and teamwork. More than a physical challenge, it was an exercise in leadership development, requiring participants to navigate complex situations, overcome unforeseen obstacles, and cultivate essential decision-making skills in a dynamic environment.
Throughout the expedition, students encountered various challenges, including steep inclines, and physical exhaustion. These obstacles served as opportunities to develop resilience, encouraging individuals to persevere through adversity and maintain composure under pressure. By confronting these difficulties, students gained confidence in their ability to manage demanding situations and adapt to evolving circumstances.
Adaptability:
The trek also underscored the importance of adaptability. Route changes, unexpected delays, and logistical challenges necessitated flexibility and quick thinking. Participants learned that leadership is not about rigid control but about making informed decisions based on available information while considering the collective well-being of the group.
Communication:
Effective communication was a fundamental component of the journey. Navigating challenging terrain, coordinating team responsibilities, and ensuring overall efficiency required clear, precise, and strategic communication.
Through these experiences, students enhanced their ability to articulate their thoughts, actively listen to others, and foster an environment of mutual respect and collaboration.
Decision making:
Decision-making played a critical role throughout the journey. Evaluating risks, assessing the best course of action, and determining optimal strategies in real-time settings allowed participants to refine their judgment and critical-thinking skills. They learned that leadership involves taking responsibility for decisions, considering the potential impact, and maintaining accountability.
Personal Growth & Self-awareness:
The trek provided students with the opportunity to reflect on their strengths and areas for improvement, recognize the importance of both leading and following, and develop a deeper understanding of their role within a team. It was a process of continuous learning, encouraging individuals to embrace challenges as stepping stones toward greater competence and confidence.
Reaching the summit was a moment of accomplishment, but the true significance of the experience lay in the lessons learned along the way. As they descended, students carried with them not just the memories of the journey but also a renewed sense of purpose, enhanced leadership skills, and a profound appreciation for perseverance and teamwork.
This expedition was not merely a trek but an experiential learning opportunity that will continue to shape students’ leadership trajectories. The principles and insights gained will serve as a foundation for future endeavors, reinforcing the understanding that every challenge presents an opportunity for growth and excellence.
