Highly recommended in the world of high-performance under pressure. Her approach equipped me to develop my skills to transfer away from sport. Nis gave me a greater understanding of the unwritten rules, the key skills required and how to transition to the next phase in my career.
~ David Smith, 2x World Champion & Olympic Gold Medalist
He did it. She did it. So can you.
Dive into the stories of nine individuals and nine organisations that prove just how powerful unlocking your top 1% can be.
From securing top positions to kicking imposter syndrome to the curb, our clients are rising in the industry having achieved milestones that once seemed out of reach.
Feel the confidence of seeing hard work pay off with promotions and bold career moves.
These stories are all about real people achieving real goals, and they’ll show you just what’s possible when you go for it.
In these brief snapshots, see firsthand how our programmes have turned aspirations into results.
They’ve overcome imposter syndrome for good, started a successful entrepreneurial business, achieved a significant fitness goal, conquered a debilitating fear that’s been holding them back, found their voice and spoke at their first conference, achieved bold goals, pursued their passions, transitioned to a new career with newfound confidence, achieved personal milestones, and published their first books to name a few…
Step into the inspiring world of personal transformation as we unveil the stories of nine individuals who dared to unlock their top 1% potential. Each journey is a testament to their remarkable power of saying yes to their future, leading to tangible achievements.
Barrister, Board Member, Executive Director, World Trademark Review Global Leader for 2024
Truly transformative for me. When I started, I felt lost – my identity subsumed by saying yes to too many things.
But over our 3 months together, Nis helped me rediscover my authentic self and reignite my creative spark.
Her gentle guidance taught me the power of setting boundaries, scheduling thinking time, journaling to gain perspective, and most importantly – prioritising self-care and play. I relearned how to laugh, filter less, and express myself freely.
The incubator gave me the courage to pursue my passions like photography, leatherwork, and voicework.
I’m forever grateful to Nis for helping me get unstuck and live my best life joyfully as my full creative self.
Coach Nis Notes:
Hogarth exudes quiet sophistication, effortless charm, and a sharp wit. His creative talent left us speechless, and his unique concepts captivates. Deep alignment and making a home for yourself within yourself is not easy and despite a busy schedule, Hogarth approached this tough target with precision. As he explored his passions, people in the group were in awe. We got to see a stunning handmade leather creation as part of his goal and many more results. The best part is Hogarth’s journey is just beginning…
Law Student
Before meeting Nis, I felt trapped by my health issues—severe bacterial pneumonia, multiple burnouts, and chronic fatigue syndrome had turned my life into a constant struggle. My body felt like a burden, and my mind was consumed by fear and frustration. I withdrew from the world, unsure if I would ever achieve my goals.
Meeting Nis was a turning point. There is something unique about her—she has a rare ability to see you before you truly see yourself.
She didn’t just help me redefine success; she helped me redefine myself.
For years, I thought success was a rigid concept dictated by society. But Nis guided me to understand that success is deeply personal—it’s about trusting yourself and having the tools to navigate life’s challenges.
Through our coaching, I learned that being delicate doesn’t mean being fragile; it means being intricate, unique. Nis helped me break the cycle of over-exertion and forced rest that had dominated my life. She taught me to change my self-talk, and to embrace my experiences as my superpower.
The journey was demanding at times, pushing me to dig deep and uncover hidden fears and desires. It was also subtle, with shifts in my perspective becoming apparent only when I found myself handling familiar situations with a newfound confidence and plan of action.
Today, I have landed an internship at my dream law firm—something that once seemed impossible.
My life is my own again, not because my health challenges have disappeared, but because I now see them as part of my journey, not the end of it.
I have a toolbox of strategies, a mindset that empowers me, and a future I am excited about. Nis didn’t just coach me; she helped me reclaim my life and gave me the courage to step into it fully.
This transformation has been nothing short of life-changing, and I now realise that my journey didn’t stop when I was 21—it was just redirected.
Coach Nis Notes:
Julia began her journey to unlock her top 1% potential as my youngest 1:1 client. With her bright intellect, sharp observation skills, and introspective nature, she embodies the gracefulness of her family. Our work together enabled her to overcome limiting beliefs, embrace self-forgiveness, and balance the emotional tension of feeling ‘too much’ or ‘not enough’. Her journey highlights the power of confronting your fears and reclaiming inner strength. I’m proud she trusted the process and kept her sassy mind open to get top results early in her career.
Head of Capacity, Learning and Teaching
I took this course to balance my time and energy between personal and professional commitments. I wanted to prioritise self-care, set realistic expectations, and manage my energy reserves amidst my packed schedule.
The workshop was hugely impactful and transformative.
I learned how to respect and protect myself with greater intent, improving my communication, resilience, and confidence in just two hours.
Now, I invest my time and energy more intentionally.
It’s improved my wellbeing and also enabled me to share these strategies with others facing similar challenges.
Nis’s masterful approach created a safe space for open discussion, reflection, and expression, providing clear steps, tools, and strategies I could implement immediately.
Coach Nis Notes :
Oksana, a seasoned and meticulous leader, recognised the importance of establishing the right boundaries to achieve balance in her life. With decades of experience in the education sector, she approached the course with unwavering dedication, thoughtfully applying each lesson. Leaders like Oksana give selflessly, leaving little time for themselves. With her new tools she transformed her relationship with herself, allowing her to thrive. It shows that with the right approach, fulfilment is yours. Her courage and commitment is an inspiration.
Managing Director, Bonds Trader
Nis added tremendous value that I could not have found anywhere else. She gets to the problem quickly and delivers value straight away. The ROI achieved is monetary value and soft skills.
I invested in two programs, and each one led to a promotion.
She improved my communication and presentation skills, boosting my confidence and self-awareness.
Her guidance was vital in establishing my leadership presence at work and developing my emotional intelligence so I’m better equipped to influence and connect with others on a busy and competitive trading floor, and importantly my key stakeholders.
Investing in myself and asking for her professional assistance was the best decision I have made in my career.
Coach Nis Notes:
Marco’s journey vividly illustrates the power of stepping beyond your comfort zone. Initially, through 1:1 coaching together, he achieved two promotions. His next goal -transitioning into leadership -seemed daunting, especially as an introvert. Despite his reservations, Marco invested in a group program. He uplevelled his communication and presentation skills and made a successful leap into leadership. He felt the fear of the unknown, and decided to invest in himself which paid off handsomely.
Executive Director
Before attending, I found myself at a significant crossroads in my life. I had been with the same company for nearly two decades, and while my career had been stable, I knew deep down it was time for a change. I was ready to walk away, but I had no idea what the next chapter of my life looked like. That uncertainty weighed heavily on me. I felt lost and anxious about the future, unsure of how to navigate the unknowns that lay ahead.
I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect from the workshop. Would it be just another generic self-help session? Would it really address the deeper questions I had about my life, my purpose, and my next steps? Despite my hesitation, I decided to give it a shot, hoping that it might provide some clarity during a time when I felt like I had none.
From the moment I began The Classic Day for Men Workshop, I realised it was different. The workshop wasn’t about quick fixes or superficial advice. It was about digging deep, reassessing my priorities, and coming face-to-face with the things that had been holding me back for years. Nis has an incredible way of guiding you through the process in a way that feels both gentle and transformative. It wasn’t about being told what to do—it was about being shown how to truly reflect on what was important to me.
One of the biggest revelations I had during the workshop was learning how to “dial things back.” For years, I had been running on autopilot, saying yes to everything and everyone, constantly trying to keep up with all the demands of life. The Classic Day for Men helped me take a step back and reevaluate where I was putting my energy. I realised that I had been spending so much time and effort on people and situations that didn’t actually bring any value or meaning to my life. Letting go of those things wasn’t easy, but with Nis’s guidance, I learned how to release what no longer served me.
This shift in mindset created a ripple effect throughout my life. By decluttering my mental and emotional space, I gained a new level of self-awareness that I had never experienced before. I became more attuned to my true desires and passions—things I had long buried under the weight of routine and obligation. I stopped living for others and started living for myself.
As a result, I’ve achieved incredible milestones that, before the workshop, felt like distant dreams. I had always wanted to get my private pilot’s license, but I never thought it was possible. It was one of those “maybe someday” goals that I would push aside whenever life got busy. After The Classic Day for Men, I stopped making excuses and finally pursued it—and I’m proud to say that I’ve now earned my license.
That wasn’t the only dream I realised. I’ve also challenged myself physically and mentally by climbing mountains, something I had only ever admired from afar. These adventures have been more than just personal achievements—they’ve been symbolic of the barriers I’ve broken through in my life. And perhaps one of the most surprising accomplishments has been participating in fitness photo shoots, a bold step out of my comfort zone that I never would have imagined before.
These milestones are the tangible results of the transformation I went through after attending The Classic Day for Men Workshop, but the real change is how I feel on the inside. I’m more confident, more at peace, and more excited about what lies ahead. I’ve embraced a mindset of growth and possibility, rather than fear and limitation. The tools I learned in the workshop have become a part of my everyday life, and I now approach each day with a sense of purpose and direction.
None of this would have been possible without the guidance of Nis and the insights I gained from The Classic Day for Men. The workshop helped me peel back the layers of doubt and hesitation and tap into the potential I always had within me. It wasn’t just a day of learning—it was the starting point of a complete personal transformation.
If you’re feeling stuck, uncertain, or simply looking for a way to kickstart a meaningful change in your life, I cannot recommend this workshop enough. Whether you’re on the verge of a major life transition like I was, or you just want to rediscover your sense of purpose, The Classic Day for Men will give you the tools to make it happen. Nis has a way of opening doors you didn’t even know existed and showing you how to walk through them with confidence. If you’re ready to take the leap, this is the perfect place to start.
The Classic Day for Men isn’t just a workshop—it’s an experience that will leave a lasting impact on your life. I’m living proof of that, and I’m incredibly grateful for the journey it set me on.
Coach Nis Notes :
Jamie approached the experience with an open mind, fully trusting the process despite the many challenges he faced. His transformation was remarkable—his playful, youthful energy returned, and he’s now moving confidently toward his north star. The constant, is his deep love for those around him. His resilience, faith, and commitment to growth are inspiring. I’m proud of how he embraced the hard work, stayed the course, and evolved into the next level of himself.
Head of Supply Chain
Feeling stuck in my career was like trudging through quicksand. Despite being a high achiever, I lacked fulfilment, and looking back, I was burning out. I hit a point where self-help books felt like empty promises—I needed real, actionable guidance. It was a leap of faith when I decided to join the GID Incubator Programme. As an introvert, the thought of being in a mixed group was daunting, but something in me whispered it was time for change.
Through the program, I embarked on a journey of self-discovery like never before. Nis’s unwavering support and the group’s camaraderie lifted me out of my comfort zone and into a space of growth. I gained clarity on my goals, rewired my mindset, and installed habits that moved me forward. It wasn’t easy—I faced doubts, fears, and moments of uncertainty. But each step I took, with Nis by my side, felt like reclaiming a piece of myself.
The transformation was amazing. For the first time, I understood what it meant to invest in myself—and it was worth every piece of courage it took to make that decision.
But the journey didn’t end there. I took another leap and invested in myself once more, this time without hesitation. Since then, I’ve experienced life-changing moments—from moving countries to starting anew; each obstacle became an opportunity to grow, thanks to the mindset work I did with Nis.
Today, as I reflect on my journey, I can’t help but celebrate how far I’ve come.
I showed up, put in the work, and continue to reap the rewards.
This wasn’t just about transforming my career—it was about reclaiming my power, owning my worth, and creating a life that truly reflects who I am.
And for that, I am forever grateful. If you’re ready to embark on your own journey of transformation, know that you’re not alone. Take the leap, invest in yourself, and watch as the world unfolds before you in ways you never thought possible.
Coach Nis Notes :
Marianne is a brave exceptional leader who consistently exceeds expectations in her industry. Her kindness, humility, and nurturing spirit shine through in every interaction. I vividly remember the moment she decided to invest in herself for the first time, it sparked her remarkable growth that inspired us all. Her bold, red-hot heart drives her success but also serves as an inspiration to those around her. I am incredibly proud of her achievements and excited to see where her journey takes her next.
Director
When I set my sights on a top job at one of the biggest companies in my industry, I turned to Nis for help.
The result? I secured the role, gaining a level of financial stability I hadn’t experienced before. She fast-tracked my journey, and it’s opened doors to even more opportunities. I’m still amazed by what I’ve achieved in such a short time.
Nis’s network and influence were crucial. She expertly navigated the complex web of decision-makers, connecting me directly with key influencers and bypassing layers of middlemen that would have slowed me down. This alone saved me at least eight months of effort, allowing me to reach my goal in record time.
From day one, Nis believed in me. She pushed me out of my comfort zone and got me into the right rooms. Her support, along with my wife’s, gave me the confidence to aim higher than I ever thought possible.
What sets Nis apart is her balance of big-picture vision with precise, strategic action. She creates space for you to find your own path, while being bold and intentional in her guidance. Through every step, she remained grounded and committed to my success.
Nis equips you to achieve your goals without letting your hopes slip away. Even in tough times, she stayed deliberate and fully invested in my journey. She’s a coach who refuses to let your goals go unrealised, and for that, I’m incredibly grateful.
Coach Nis Notes:
Meet Neil, a humble, all-round hardworking leader and family man. He didn’t realise his talent: a common theme among my clients. His journey focused on mindset and shifting ingrained beliefs. Neil’s humility often cost him opportunities, so we built his self-worth, confidence and self-esteem. He trusted the process and faced his fears – both were not easy. Neil nailed his hairy scary goal. I’m still beaming with pride for him and his family. His journey proves that nice guys don’t always finish last; sometimes, they finish first.
Head of DEI
Nis’s mentorship was instrumental in shaping my career.
Nis believed in my potential, and this led to me securing a permanent role through building the business case for a gap in the department.
Nis took me under her wing, supporting me in getting on a much better career ladder within the bank, securing conversations with senior management that I wouldn’t have usually had direct access to and sharing her advice and guidance around the unwritten rules in the corporate world.
This resulted in opportunities for involvement in expanded responsibilities, providing a priceless foundation for my career, and really set me up for the success I have achieved since.
At a time when I was given a great opportunity to secure one of twenty spaces from 800 applicants – a mammoth application which I achieved. I am so grateful for her support, and I certainly hold Nis in high regard.
Nis is a natural when it comes to developing people, and I am grateful for the support I have received from her.
Coach Nis Notes:
Winnie’s transformation from a promising newcomer in wealth management to a confident leader is a testament to the power of investing in your career and not waiting for others to invest for you. Her openness, positivity and excitement to work made her sparkle. As part of her journey, we created a persuasive business case for a prestigious award in South Africa, enhancing her ability to showcase her value. She’s climbed the career ladder while staying true to her values, and this is something to be proud of.
Former Head of Strategy, Commercial Banking
I was fortunate to attend two of Nis’ transformative programs over the years.
What sets Nis apart is her unique coaching style, which combines genuine authenticity with a professional, corporate approach.
She consistently delivers words of wisdom that resonate deeply, sparking reflection and driving lasting change in those fortunate enough to receive them.
The Get-It-Done program was truly life-changing for me. It empowered me with the confidence to pursue my inner calling, all within the supportive and judgment-free environment Nis creates.
Her constructive feedback in the intimate small-group setting was invaluable.
As a result, within a few months, I launched the first version of my planner, followed by a second iteration. The program has enabled me to continually refine my offering, aligning it with my true purpose. I now firmly believe in the power of attracting our tribe, echoing Nis’ wisdom.
In essence, Nis’ programs have been instrumental in my personal and professional growth, guiding me toward fulfilling my soul’s calling.
Coach Nis Notes:
When I first met Stephanie, she was already a high-achiever in a senior banking role, known for her intelligence, efficiency and grace. Despite her success, she secretly longed for a new life beyond the corporate world. Facing this internal conflict head-on in the program, she made bold moves. She launched two businesses, a book, and a magnificent planner. Receiving her new planner, with a heartfelt note, made me smile. Her journey highlights courage, taking action in the right direction and that it’s never too late to pivot and pursue your passions.
Unleash the power of unlocking your team’s top 1% potential with our proven methodology. Looking to elevate individual and team performance within your organisation? From leadership to team development, witness the remarkable achievements born from dedication, innovation, and strategic partnership. Experience the creation of stronger, more unified teams and the generation of millions of dollars in net new revenue. Witness the evolution of leaders as they transition from good to great to excellent. |
Chairman
I worked with Nis in my last Executive role where she persuaded a cynical, dyed-in-the-wool Exec to embrace the potential of coaching to improve performance.
I very much appreciated her no-nonsense, direct style which took me outside my comfort zone on many occasions. She has a focus and drive that inspires confidence and a determination to succeed.
However perhaps just as important is her loyalty and empathy which I saw during my painful and difficult exit from Santander. That’s when I appreciated the bond we had built most. She was there when I needed her most and that’s something I won’t forget.
I also observed her working with some of my junior colleagues to develop and grow their confidence and ambition by providing clarity on what they needed to do. I saw a number of colleagues really grow and take advantage of new opportunities that they may not have done without the guidance from Nis.
A true professional who is excellent at her job but more than that, a wonderful human being.
Coach Nis Notes:
Mike is a rare breed – of human and leader. His character and values earn deep respect and trust and his success, built on hard work and integrity, led to strong loyalty from his team and a consistent track record of substantial ROI. Known for his sharp insights and attention to detail, he left a lasting impact and his former colleagues continue to praise his exceptional leadership, especially during tough times. Mike’s leadership and humour made coaching him a delightful experience and I’m honoured to have been his first and last coach.
Managing Director
Our journey as a new Board began in uncertain times. We stepped into the program with Brexit looming—a real but unknown challenge on the horizon. Little did we know, this was just the beginning.
As we navigated Brexit’s complexities, we were suddenly thrust into a global pandemic that turned the world upside down. Just as we began to adapt to this new reality, the outbreak of war brought further disruptions to our lives, and for the business it sent raw material prices soaring and making trading discussions increasingly difficult.
Despite this relentless turmoil, our Board led with unwavering positivity and a solution-oriented approach, guiding our teams through one of the most turbulent periods in recent history.
Our resilience paid off and we achieved what once seemed impossible: grew our business turnover by over 60% and maintained strong profit margins.
This success didn’t come by chance.
The personal and collective journey we undertook gave us the depth we needed to lead through adversity. It transformed us from leaders focused on daily survival and debt repayment to purposeful visionaries driving towards a bold future.
The program instilled in us the resilience, communication, and teamwork that has taken our business to new heights and also created a bond of trust and collaboration within our leadership team. We stayed true to our core values.
I am immensely proud of how we’ve evolved, both as a team and as individuals. We’ve transformed into a powerhouse, leading with self-awareness and inspiring our teams through every challenge.
It’s taken our business to new heights but also enriched us personally in ways we never imagined.
If you’re ready to move from transactional to aspirational leadership, this program is a journey worth every ounce of energy.
Coach Nis Notes:
Helen is a courageous leader who dares to dream and explore the unknown. She is prepared to ask bold questions and gently encourages her people to do the same. Before engaging her Board in our program, Helen completed a one-on-one coaching journey with me. The Board shared the noticeable uplevel and then it was the Board’s turn. Since then, the business has achieved record results, and the Board has grown more connected and resilient. Witnessing their product range succeed and their boardroom sessions thrive is a testament to their remarkable evolution to go large or go home.
International School Director
Under Nis Arend’s expert guidance, our leadership team became considerably stronger, more cohesive, more focused and efficient, and more harmonious.
We now have a much better understanding of each team member’s strengths and limitations and consequently, are able to support each other more effectively, leading to clearly better results.
I highly recommend Nis’s services to any organisation that is serious about continuous improvement.
Working with Nis was a transformative experience for our leadership team.
Coach Nis Notes :
Collaborating with Dr. Condon, or D.J. as he’s known in this top international school, was a rewarding experience. His clarity, vision, and ability to navigate high pressure with a steady hand made a significant impact. D.J.’s strategic approach and sincere dedication to his team’s success, even when tackling challenges directly, showcased his leadership. He’s strategic, keeps his eye on the goal and takes his time to get to know his team well. Our year together was a powerful testament to his dedication and authentic leadership.
Group CFO
Nis supported our change and performance enhancement programme with the Board and Senior Management.
I can’t recommend her highly enough for the impact she brought to our business culture, with her infectious attitude and straight-talking style, which was embraced across the business at all levels.
Coach Nis Notes:
Luke epitomises efficiency and clarity with a no-nonsense approach that drives swift and impactful results. His disciplined, self-motivated nature is evident in his impeccable time management and the personal transformation he achieved outside of work. Throughout our journey, Luke was committed to enhancing both his own performance and that of his leadership team collective. Luke’s commitment to excellence and common sense showcases a leader who’s driven to make meaningful change that lasts.
Principal Consultant, Talent Management Consultancy
All training should have the “Nis Factor!”
I have observed Nis facilitating learning and professional development activities many times, and I am always struck by the energy she brings, the mastery of the topic she is delivering, the absolute control of the classroom, and above all the engagement of the participants (even those who come intending to sit silently by the wayside).
Nis works to actively engage her audience with relevant learning and well-targeted exercises and demonstrations.
Over ten million dollars achieved from one team in one week as they implemented their new learnings.
Coach Nis Notes :
Mike is a leader of exceptional insight and grace. I admired his ability to act with rare discernment at just the right moments. Leading a high-stakes program at a global bank, we created a bespoke 3-year program that the client loved and achieved significant ROI. His calm demeanour and precise communication set him apart. Mike’s heartfelt message upon his retirement underscored our connection and even ruined my mascara! I cherished our partnership; everyone benefited from this global program, with Mike at the heart of its success.
President of International Women's Forum, UK, and Chair of The Society of English and American Lawyers (SEAL)
Having invited Nis to my law firm on many occasions, I was expecting excellence.
It was a terrific, thought-provoking day about your mindset.
The best part of the day?
Everything – as well as Nis’s inimitable enthusiasm.
I walked away with a new focus and new ways to enjoy a more fulfilling life after making a major career change.
The content was 10/10.
The day was life-changing for some and life-affirming for others.
Coach Nis Notes :
Marty is a natural connector, effortlessly bringing people together with a genuine touch. She built an impressive career, and remains wonderfully humble. From our first encounter at a networking event, I admired how she seamlessly enriched others’ networking. Her commitment to lifelong learning reminds us that every day is a school day and with her extensive experience as president and chair, she adds a unique charm to everything she does. It’s been a pleasure supporting her on her career journey and sparkling wherever she goes.
Head of Corporate
When one of my team members was about to step into his first leadership role, I knew this was a critical transition— for him and our team. The shift from being a peer to becoming a leader is one of the most challenging phases in anyone’s career, and I wanted to provide him with the best support possible. That’s why I turned to Nis.
From our very first conversation, Nis showed an extraordinary understanding of his strengths and the specific challenges he would face in this new role. Her insights were so precise and relevant that I immediately felt confident this was the right path to help him grow.
In our industry, leadership often falters during these pivotal moments due to a lack of tailored support. I was determined to break that mould. I wanted him to develop his own authentic leadership style, not just mimic mine, and to become a leader who could inspire and guide others with confidence.
The impact of Nis’s coaching was both profound and immediate.
He became more decisive, developed a deep sense of self-awareness, and mastered strategies for navigating difficult conversations and managing performance effectively.
He often referenced his learnings from the sessions, which highlighted the significant value he derived from the coaching.
This investment transformed this person and it sent a powerful message across the team about my personal commitment to nurturing strong, positive leadership. The results were clear—his enhanced leadership directly contributed to improved team performance, increased revenue, and a noticeable boost in staff retention.
Nis’s expert guidance has been instrumental in helping him, and by extension, our team, thrive during this crucial transition. Her coaching has set a new benchmark for leadership excellence in our organisation.
Coach Nis Notes:
Debbie is a selfless leader, and beautiful both inside and out. She cares for her team, balancing a focus on ROI with empathy. In the competitive finance world, Debbie balances achieving results while nurturing her team. I’ve noticed her dedication to changing the landscape of leadership in finance – a tough ask in this industry. She looks to make things better than how she found them. Partnering with her has been a pleasure, seeing firsthand her ability of heart and mind to support and lift those around her.
HR Director
She has an inspiring, dynamic, and effective approach to maximising potential.
With her unique ability to quickly understand both individual and team dynamics, she identifies opportunities swiftly. She created a bespoke programme that truly brings out the best in people.
We’ve already seen a shift in our team.
Since starting with Nis, we’ve created other programmes to to enrol leaders within our business to develop their high performers.
She’s an awesome coach who helps unlock that hidden potential that lies within. Highly recommend her to anyone or any organisation.
Coach Nis Notes:
Greg is an HR leader whose genuine care for his team is remarkable. During an assessment of his senior leadership, his focus on people was distinctive. His blend of deep HR expertise and sincere empathy significantly influenced our change management programme. Working with Greg was deeply fulfilling, as we navigated complex dynamics together with clarity and mutual respect. His broad knowledge and strong communication skills made our collaboration seamless and effective, driving impactful results and shared success.
Chief Information Officer
As the CIO of a non-profit organisation working in international development, I’m acutely aware of the rapid and ever-evolving IT landscape. While exciting, it places immense pressure on my team to acquire new skills alongside their day-to-day responsibilities.
My vision was to provide a week-long IT bootcamp that offers a dedicated space for learning and growth. This initiative was about the organisation’s success and empowering each individual. Recent significant technological changes within our organisation further emphasised the need for ongoing skill development. My goal was to ensure everyone felt confident and equipped to leverage opportunities presented by new technologies.
One major challenge we faced was our globally distributed team, many of whom had never met in person. Despite technology’s facilitation, it often felt transactional, lacking the depth of in-person interaction. So, with our Executive Team’s backing, we brought everyone to headquarters for the bootcamp.
I wanted this event to focus on technical learning and personal development.
Having seen Nis deliver an inspiring session at a London IT event, I knew she was the perfect fit for day one, focusing on self-care and personal development.
With around 50 employees from Asia, Africa, and Europe, including non-IT colleagues and scientists, the bootcamp was a melting pot of cultures. Working with Nis, we created a custom programme to build connections and motivation, setting the right mindset for the week ahead.
The results were transformative.
I witnessed colleagues opening up and engaging in ways I had never seen before.
By the end of the week, the team had bonded beyond expectations. I believe Nis’s session on the first day was the catalyst for these strong relationships.
Our virtual scrums and daily stand-ups, though already collaborative, faced communication challenges due to cultural differences. Breaking down these barriers at the start of the week has radically improved team communication. Some colleagues who typically took a back seat are now more confident in speaking up in virtual meetings, which is truly amazing. Nis’s contribution was instrumental in making our IT Bootcamp a success.
Coach Nis Notes:
Linda is a compassionate and visionary leader with high emotional intelligence. From the start of our partnership, she was respectful about each person’s role and her openness was pivotal in creating a bespoke BootCamp for her 50-strong global team. Collaborating with Linda is exciting; she has an open mind to pioneer – something others fear. Her leadership embodies the essence of real-world diversity and inclusion, and showcases that even in IT, there’s a strong desire to connect human to human.