The first edition of the IWA LeaP leadership programme for young water professionals has reached a pivotal juncture, with its 2024 cohort concluding an inspiring four-day retreat at the foot of Mount Kinabalu in Sabah, Malaysia. This transformative experience marks the start of a year-long journey where participants will address critical water challenges while growing as visionary leaders. 

Transformative Leadership in Action 

Throughout the retreat, participants engaged in activities designed to deepen self-awareness, strengthen resilience, and enhance leadership capabilities. Frameworks such as the Logical Levels of Change (LLOC) and the ‘Window of Tolerance’ provided tools to navigate complex challenges with clarity and composure. 

A highlight of the retreat was a creative 3D modeling activity, where participants constructed representations of communities in diverse geographical realities. This exercise sparked critical discussions on equity, inclusivity, and sustainability, reinforcing the importance of holistic approaches to water management. 

Additionally, meaningful interactions with local communities impacted by the Babagon Dam project offered firsthand insights into the intersections of water infrastructure, environmental stewardship, and resilience. These stories served as powerful reminders that effective leadership in the water sector must always prioritise people and partnerships. 

Laying the Foundation for Impact 

The retreat set the stage for impactful action, with participants aligning on three focus areas that will drive their collaborative projects over the next 12 months: 

• Pollution and Contamination Control 

• Circular Economy in the Water Sector 

• Achieving SDG 6.1 (Universal Access to Water) and SDG 6.2 (Sanitation for All) 

These projects, rooted in innovation and collaboration, will benefit from the unparalleled reach of the IWA network, coupled with guidance from programme committees and project coaches. With a focus on real-world outcomes, this cohort is committed to tackling the sector’s most pressing challenges. 

Looking Ahead 

This year’s cohort are Matthew MacRorie, Laurence Strubbe, Shivon Mehta, Chotiwat Jantarakasem, Yaw Adjei Abrampah, Natalie Páez, Oscar Timothy Balongo, Federick Pinongcos, Linda Li, Yumeng Zhao, Bénigne Mugwaneza, and Igor Luketina. They are a vibrant mix of emerging leaders from diverse backgrounds, united by their commitment to creating a sustainable future. Their journey reflects IWA’s broader mission to inspire change and drive innovation in the water sector. 

As the cohort embarks on their projects, they carry forward the insights and connections forged during the retreat. With determination and collaborative spirit, these leaders are set to make a meaningful impact—paving the way for a more inclusive, resilient water future. 

IWA LeaP is supported by the Emerging Water Leaders Endowment Fund, whose founding donors are Glen and Patty Daigger. 

Here’s to the next chapter of Leadership, Collaboration, and Innovation!  

https://iwa-network.org/iwa-leap-leadership-programme/