Introduction

In today's progressive corporate landscape, the strategic imperative for women on boards and the cultivation of truly inclusive governance are paramount for driving innovation, enhancing decision-making, and securing long-term organizational resilience. Diverse perspectives at the highest levels of leadership lead to more robust discussions, better risk management, and a deeper understanding of diverse markets and stakeholders. This comprehensive training course is meticulously designed to equip current and aspiring board members, senior executives, and governance professionals with the essential frameworks and practical strategies to champion gender diversity and foster equitable governance practices.

This 5-day intensive program will empower participants to cultivate a deep understanding of the benefits of board diversity, master inclusive leadership techniques, and refine their ability to lead with equity and strategic foresight. You will learn to identify and dismantle barriers to women's advancement in governance, build diverse and high-performing boards, and foster a culture where every voice is heard and valued. By mastering these critical competencies, you will amplify your impact in the boardroom and confidently steer your organization towards a future of fairness, innovation, and sustainable success.

Duration: 5 Days

Target Audience

• Current Board Members (Executive and Non-Executive)
• Aspiring Board Members (all genders)
• Senior Executives and C-Suite Leaders
• Human Resources Professionals
• Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Officers
• Governance Professionals and Company Secretaries
• Legal Counsel advising Boards
• Consultants specializing in Board Diversity
• Professionals seeking to advocate for inclusive leadership
• Anyone responsible for talent development and succession planning

Objectives

• Understand the strategic imperative and business case for women on boards and board diversity.
• Develop a deep awareness of unconscious biases impacting board appointments and dynamics.
• Master strategies for attracting, recruiting, and retaining diverse board talent.
• Learn to foster inclusive boardroom dynamics and effective decision-making.
• Cultivate skills in advocating for gender equity and challenging the status quo.
• Enhance communication and influence to champion diversity initiatives at the governance level.
• Understand regulatory and investor expectations regarding board diversity.
• Develop strategies for mentoring and sponsoring women for board roles.
• Create a personalized action plan for promoting women on boards and inclusive governance.

Course Modules

Module 1: The Strategic Imperative of Board Diversity

• Defining board diversity beyond gender: exploring cognitive, experiential, and demographic diversity.
• Understanding the business case for women on boards: enhanced performance, innovation, risk management.
• Exploring global trends and research on board diversity and its impact.
• Identifying the benefits of diverse perspectives in strategic decision-making.
• Case studies of organizations benefiting from diverse boards.

Module 2: Understanding and Mitigating Unconscious Bias

• Defining unconscious biases and their impact on board recruitment and dynamics.
• Techniques for recognizing and mitigating biases in selection processes.
• Strategies for fostering an inclusive mindset among existing board members.
• The role of self-awareness and emotional intelligence in overcoming bias.
• Practical exercises for identifying and addressing unconscious bias.

Module 3: Attracting and Recruiting Diverse Board Talent

• Developing a strategic approach to board recruitment.
• Expanding talent pipelines to include diverse candidates.
• Best practices for crafting inclusive job descriptions and interview processes.
• Leveraging professional networks and search firms for diversity.
• Onboarding and integrating new diverse board members effectively.

Module 4: Fostering Inclusive Boardroom Dynamics

• Techniques for facilitating inclusive discussions where all voices are heard.
• Strategies for encouraging constructive challenge and diverse viewpoints.
• Managing power dynamics and ensuring equitable participation.
• The role of the Chair and individual directors in promoting inclusion.
• Creating a psychologically safe environment for open dialogue.

Module 5: Governance Frameworks for Diversity & Equity

• Integrating diversity and inclusion into corporate governance policies and charters.
• Understanding regulatory and listing requirements related to board diversity.
• Developing measurable goals and targets for board diversity.
• The role of board committees (e.g., Nominating & Governance) in DEI.
• Reporting on board diversity and progress to stakeholders.

Module 6: Advocacy, Mentorship, and Sponsorship

• Strategies for advocating for gender equity and diversity in governance.
• The critical roles of mentors and sponsors for women aspiring to board roles.
• Techniques for identifying, attracting, and nurturing mentorship relationships.
• Building powerful professional networks for support and opportunities.
• Becoming a champion and sponsor for diverse talent.

Module 7: Sustaining Inclusive Governance and Impact

• Implementing continuous learning and development for board members on DEI topics.
• Measuring the impact of board diversity on organizational outcomes.
• Strategies for addressing resistance to diversity initiatives.
• Building a long-term vision for an equitable and inclusive governance structure.
• Creating a personalized action plan for championing women on boards and inclusive governance.

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.