By Sharon D'Souza-Pretto for BIS Mumbai

A training program on Conflict resolution and Leadership skills was organised for the newly elected Office Bearers of the various units of Salesian Co-operators across the Province, at Don Bosco Provincial House, Matunga on October 4, 2025.

The program, animated by Fr Diego Nunes, began with an exercise on emotional awareness that helped us understand how emotions influence the way we work and lead.

The next segment was a reflection on different types of teams and our perception of the role we played in our teams/local units.

This was followed by a role play on conflict resolution within a family and we applied the learning to conflicts within the units. The need for open communication, building trust, creating a safe space for every member, listening and being non-judgmental were the values that resonated with the participants.

Various leadership qualities were identified during the next exercise where we listed conflicts that we had experienced and resolved, such as assertiveness, conviction, diplomacy, discipline, persistence, etc.

Fr Nunes then nudged us to identify the ways in which we relate to people in our interactions and relationships This process of reflection was an eye opener for many of the 40 attendees.

The next session was animated by the outgoing Provincial Coordinator, Ms Sudha Pillai, who enlightened us on the rules and regulations governing the formation of the local and Provincial Councils.

She shared the specific roles and duties of each member of the local and Provincial Council, namely, the Coordinator, Secretary, Treasurer and the Councilor for Formation.

We are grateful to Fr Nunes and the outgoing Provincial Council for planning and animating this training program.

Mr Cyril Asirvadam of the Yerwada unit shared that this program has enabled us to be aware of our strengths and existing leadership skills. Ms Jacinta Jones of the Nerul unit expressed gratitude for the interactive and fun way in which we identified areas for growth, the challenges we face and how we chart the way ahead.

We deeply appreciate this opportunity to refresh our leadership skills and look forward to using them efficiently and effectively in our roles as office bearers of the local units of Salesian Co-operators.