In a rapidly evolving financial landscape, the traditional top-down, command-and-control leadership style is no longer sufficient for microfinance institutions (MFIs) that aim to create sustainable social and financial impact. Transformational leadership offers a powerful alternative, inspiring and motivating staff to go beyond their self-interest and work towards the collective mission of the organization. By fostering a culture of trust, empowerment, and innovation, a transformational leader can unlock the full potential of their team, drive a shared vision, and navigate the complex challenges of the sector. This approach is not just about managing operations; it is about building a dynamic and purpose-driven organization that can adapt and thrive in a changing world.

This course is designed to equip microfinance leaders with the strategic mindset and practical skills needed to become a transformational leader. You will learn the four key pillars of this leadership model and explore how to apply them in a microfinance context, from inspiring a shared vision to empowering your team. By mastering the art of a compelling vision, you will be prepared to lead your institution to new heights of social impact, financial sustainability, and organizational excellence. This program will provide a roadmap for cultivating a leadership style that is not only effective but also deeply meaningful.

Duration: 5 days

Target Audience:

• Microfinance institution (MFI) managers and executives
• Mid-level managers and team leaders
• Professionals in charge of human resources and organizational development
• Board members and governance specialists
• Social entrepreneurs and startup founders
• Financial inclusion and development practitioners
• Consultants in organizational change
• Researchers in leadership and management
• Professionals in charge of training and development

Objectives:

• Master the core concepts and principles of transformational leadership.
• Understand the key differences between transactional and transformational leadership.
• Learn how to inspire and motivate a team toward a shared vision.
• Grasp the complexities of a well-diversified portfolio.
• Explore strategies for fostering a culture of trust and empowerment.
• Understand the role of transformational leadership in driving innovation.
• Learn how to build a strong and cohesive team.
• Understand the link between leadership and a mission-driven culture.
• Analyze successful case studies of transformational leaders in the sector.
• Develop a strategic roadmap for your personal leadership development.

Module 1: Foundations of Transformational Leadership

• The history and evolution of leadership theories
• The four key pillars: idealized influence, inspirational motivation, intellectual stimulation, and individualized consideration
• The difference between managing and leading
• The role of a leader in a purpose-driven organization
• The importance of a compelling vision

Module 2: The Idealized Influence

• The concept of a a role model and a moral compass
• The importance of a well-defined set of values
• How to build trust and credibility with a team
• The role of a leader in setting the example
• The link between integrity and leadership

Module 3: Inspirational Motivation

• The art of communicating a compelling vision
• How to inspire and motivate a team toward a shared goal
• The role of a leader in celebrating success
• The importance of a positive and encouraging environment
• Strategies for overcoming a fear of change

Module 4: Intellectual Stimulation

• The importance of challenging the status quo
• The role of a leader in fostering a culture of innovation
• How to encourage creative thinking and problem-solving
• The importance of a well-defined feedback loop
• The link between intellectual stimulation and organizational excellence

Module 5: Individualized Consideration

• The importance of a a one-on-one relationship with a team member
• The role of a leader in mentoring and coaching
• The importance of a a well-defined growth plan
• The role of a leader in recognizing individual achievements
• The link between individualized consideration and loyalty

Module 6: The Transformational Culture

• The key components of a transformational culture
• How to build a culture of trust and empowerment
• The importance of a a flat and decentralized structure
• The role of a leader in building a team
• The importance of a a mission-driven culture

Module 7: The Transformational Leader

• The key qualities of a transformational leader
• The importance of a a well-defined personal development plan
• The role of a mentor and a coach
• The importance of a a growth mindset
• The link between a leader and a team

Module 8: The Transformational Organization

• The key components of a transformational organization
• The importance of a well-defined strategy
• The role of a leader in driving organizational change
• The link between transformational leadership and financial sustainability
• The importance of a a shared vision

Module 9: The Role of the Board

• The responsibility of the board in leadership development
• The importance of a clear and well-defined succession plan
• The role of a board in a leadership crisis
• The link between a board and a leader
• The importance of a well-defined governance structure

Module 10: Scaling and Sustainability

• The challenges and opportunities of scaling a transformational culture
• The importance of a scalable system
• The long-term financial sustainability of a transformational MFI
• The link between leadership and a more resilient business
• New trends and innovations in the sector

Training Approach

This course will be delivered by our skilled trainers who have vast knowledge and experience as expert professionals in the fields. The course is taught in English and through a mix of theory, practical activities, group discussion and case studies. Course manuals and additional training materials will be provided to the participants upon completion of the training.

Tailor-Made Course

This course can also be tailor-made to meet organization requirement. For further inquiries, please contact us on: Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org Tel: +254 702 249 449

Training Venue

The training will be held at our Skills for Africa Training Institute Training Centre. We also offer training for a group at requested location all over the world. The course fee covers the course tuition, training materials, two break refreshments, and buffet lunch.

Visa application, travel expenses, airport transfers, dinners, accommodation, insurance, and other personal expenses are catered by the participant

Certification

Participants will be issued with Skills for Africa Training Institute certificate upon completion of this course.

Airport Pickup and Accommodation

Airport pickup and accommodation is arranged upon request. For booking contact our Training Coordinator through Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org Tel: +254 702 249 449

Terms of Payment: Unless otherwise agreed between the two parties’ payment of the course fee should be done 7 working days before commencement of the training.