It is still surreal for me hearing those kind words - that I actually inspire people. But since day one, after I presented the milestone of our Communication Strategy and my journey as a SYL, everybody came to me and congratulated me for a wonderful presentation and they all said that they were inspired by my story. To my dismay I picked the last number and so, yes, I was the last one to present. I was hoping and praying that I would be the first one to present since I already finished the presentation before I left Pohnpei. In the second week, all the SAI Young Leaders presented the milestones of their change strategies and their journey as SYL. SYL’s also had the opportunity to visit such international organizations like the United Nations Headquarters in New York and World Bank in Washington DC, to interact with international stakeholders on emerging issues. In Washington DC, October 15-26, 2018, we learned the characteristics of being a good leader, as well as different styles of negotiations, influencing others and communicating effectively, which I could use to improve the Communication Strategy of Pohnpei Office of the Public Auditor (POPA). Aside from self-awareness, it is also important to be socially aware, so you know how to deal with conflict, how to influence others, how to collaborate and most especially how to empower others. One was to be aware of myself not only through my strengths, but to also recognize and improve on my weaknesses and limitations. In Chennai, I learned a lot of things about being a leader. We understand and support each other, and there were great change strategies from the other young leaders that I could share with my office. It’s not every day I would get to meet such intelligent and inspiring people as the other SAI Young Leaders from different countries - Europe, South Africa, Liberia, Botswana, Latin America, Asia and Pacific. My Chennai experience was great, humbling and unforgettable. I have nothing to say but God is an amazing God. Imagine a new employee like me (just about three months in office) would have an opportunity like this. I cannot explain how happy, blessed and grateful I was. I received an email the very next day stating that I was one of the 25 Young Leaders selected - and yes! I was invited to the Chennai Interaction which was held on March 19-29, 2018. After the interview I was told that, whether I got accepted for the program or not, a decision would be emailed to me after two days, and that the Young Leaders selected for the SYL Program would be invited to attend the International Interaction in Chennai, India.
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