by Barbara Willekens
I can highly recommend the EAN Leadership Programme to all neurologists with an interest in developing their leadership skills together with a motivated, international, diverse and fun group of junior, mid-career and more senior neurologists.
As a mid-career academic neurologist and assistant professor who is passionate about multiple sclerosis and rare neuroimmunological disorders, I enjoy juggling clinical work and research projects on a daily basis. I am based at the Department of Neurology at Antwerp University Hospital and the University of Antwerp, Belgium.
Why did I apply?
With growing responsibilities, I was looking for professional development opportunities and I found the EAN Leadership Programme very attractive. General leadership or management programmes do not fully comprehend nor address the often challenging combinations of clinical and academic neurological working environments. The combination of professional coaches and speakers with a diverse background, including EAN Committee and Board members, who are able to provide invaluable insights from their professional backgrounds was a very appealing aspect. Lastly, as the programme is run at weekends online, and in-person the day before the start of EAN congress, it was highly feasible to attend the planned sessions and combine it with my full-time job as academic neurologist.
What have my experiences with the programme been?
When I applied, I had a rough idea of what to expect, but it is so much more than what is described on eanNews. I set out to improve my skills in coaching, communication skills and providing feedback, leading teams, creating team spirit and motivating people towards common goals, getting across an inspiring vision for the future, and interacting with various stakeholders.
The virtual meetings are thematic and start with theoretical lectures by EAN board members, other expert neurologists or professional coaches, followed by time for questions and discussions as well as peer-group presentations. Small-group exercises in break-out rooms allow peer-learning and practical application of the theoretical knowledge. I enjoyed this a lot because it helped me to remain attentive and focused on the content.
I especially liked the module on advocacy for neurology, because this was a topic beyond my comfort zone. Furthermore, I have already been able to use the practical tips and tools for developing others and leading towards performance as well as handling difficult one-to-one conversations in daily practice.
My learning experience has been further enhanced by working in peer groups around self-chosen topics, providing opportunities to interact with fellow-participants and work towards a goal in short timeframes. I find it very enriching to learn from the experiences and questions from my peers who are all at different career stages, with various backgrounds and from all over Europe. Finally, my personal journey and reflection on who I am as a leader has been enlightening and a process of continuous growth.
I can highly recommend everyone to apply for this inspirational leadership programme which is a path to empowering one’s personal and professional growth.
To find out more about the programme please visit the Leadership Programme website or click here to read more articles. If you have any questions, please contact leadership@ean.org.
