Lessons in Rest, Identity, and Connection from Kigali and Mombasa

February and March 2025 were a whirlwind of inspiration and growth as I had the privilege of attending two remarkable leadership events: the Women Leadership Seminar in Kigali (February 24th & 25th) and the Transformational Leadership Africa Summit in Mombasa (February 27th to March 2nd). Both experiences left an indelible mark, offering unique yet complementary insights into the heart of effective and sustainable leadership.

In Mombasa, amidst the vibrant energy of the summit, one key takeaway resonated deeply: the profound importance of rest. The powerful words from Hebrews 12:1–3 urged us to “throw off everything that hinders” and run our race with perseverance. This wasn’t just about physical rest, but a deeper call to release the burdens and distractions that weigh us down as leaders. This teaching was beautifully juxtaposed with the exploration of two contrasting worldviews: a “separated worldview” often characterized by condemnation and a sense of scarcity, versus a “connected worldview” grounded in forgiveness and abundance. This stark contrast highlighted the transformative power of leading from a place of inner peace and trust, rather than a constant striving fueled by lack. It was a powerful reminder that true leadership flows from a wellspring of rest and a belief in sufficiency.

Just days prior, the Women Leadership Seminar in Kigali had laid crucial groundwork for this understanding. The core concepts of forgiveness and self-identity struck a profound chord. The emphasis on recognizing our inherent worth – that we are truly “more than enough” – was a powerful antidote to the pervasive feeling of inadequacy that can often plague leaders. Furthermore, the discussions around the liberating act of forgiving ourselves and others opened a clear path towards more empathetic and impactful leadership. These conversations in Kigali beautifully complemented the teachings from Mombasa, illustrating how embracing a connected, abundance-driven mindset not only shapes our leadership approach but also cultivates genuine compassion and fosters unity within our teams and communities.

Together, the Kigali seminar and the Mombasa summit created a truly transformative journey. They underscored the vital interconnectedness of several key principles for effective leadership: rest, ethical leadership, the great commission (implicitly touched upon through impact), forgiveness, and a healthy sense of identity. By consciously integrating these principles into our lives and leadership styles, we can cultivate sustainable energy, nurture a spirit of generosity, and ultimately create a more positive and lasting influence on those around us.

I am deeply grateful for the invaluable insights gained, the inspiring conversations shared, and the opportunity to connect and learn alongside so many passionate leaders. These experiences have not only enriched my understanding of leadership but have also provided practical tools and a renewed sense of purpose as I continue my own leadership journey.