Josianne Bristol (Mrs)
Director
Seychelles Business Studies Academy (SBSA)
When I joined the UNESCO Executive Leadership Programme under the SARUA HERizon Africa initiative, I was driven by a desire to strengthen my leadership capacity in higher education and contribute meaningfully to systemic transformation in my institution and my country. My expectations were clear: to gain fresh perspectives, challenge my thinking, while at the same time building my confidence in my own leadership.
First impressions: Thinking beyond the box
The opening session set the tone for what would be an eye-opening experience. We explored ‘out-of-the-box thinking’ – a concept that challenged me to see leadership not as a position, but as an interconnected role within a complex, multi-layered ecosystem. I was further challenged to explore the complexities of leadership and the advantages of connecting with others through Peer Learning prospects. This shift in perspective was profound; it reminded me that sustainable change requires both innovation and an understanding of the systems we operate in.
Learning moments and key insights
One of the most valuable lessons I took away was that leadership is deeply self-reflective and resilient. Through interactive sessions and small group discussions, I learned that effective leaders embrace their creativity, adapt to the different contexts, teams or requirements of their leadership role, and continuously learn and innovate to remain fluid and flexible in delivering as effective leaders.
Another highlight was the power of pausing, reflecting and journaling – a practice that allowed me to process complex ideas, gain clarity and align my actions with my values. These moments of intentional reflection became a cornerstone of my growth during the programme.
One of the major challenges identified during the sessions was the rapid pace of technological change, particularly with the rise of artificial intelligence (AI), which has instituted the movement from digitisation to digital and AI transformation. Leaders in higher education must adapt teaching methods, assessment strategies and institutional policies to integrate AI responsibly while maintaining academic integrity and preparing students for an AI-driven future, and helping us all to shape this future!
Collaboration and teamwork
Working with peers from different regions and disciplines was both enriching and humbling. Each discussion revealed unique challenges and innovative approaches, reinforcing the idea that collaboration is the cornerstone of leadership.
Group discussions and the final pair/group presentations played a pivotal role in enabling us to share ideas, perspectives and experiences in an open and collaborative environment. These interactions allowed participants to engage in meaningful dialogue, deepening our understanding of key concepts.
Personal growth and future goals
This journey has transformed my confidence and mindset. I now approach leadership with a renewed sense of purpose, one that prioritises innovation, adaptability and responsiveness. These lessons will guide me as I continue to advocate for excellence in higher education in my institution and my country.
Reflections and advice
The UNESCO Executive Leadership Programme was more than training. It was a transformative experience. For future participants, my advice is simple: come with an open mind, be ready to unlearn and relearn, and invest in building authentic connections. Leadership is not a destination; it’s a continuous journey of growth and contribution.
About the Author
Josianne Bristol, Director of the Seychelles Business Studies Academy, is a visionary education leader with a proven track record of driving institutional excellence and transformation. With experience in strategic planning and institutional development, she advocates for innovation and continuous improvement in educational practices, ensuring that institutions remain adaptable, inclusive and future-ready.
