This month, we are shining the spotlight on some of the GWF leaders making an impact in their communities. We are so proud of these GWF staff and alumni, who are displaying leadership in different but equally profound ways. We hope you enjoy their stories as much as we have enjoyed shaping their journeys.
Milla van Wyk, GWF Philippolis campus manager and church elder
Milla van Wyk is the much-loved manager of our Philippolis campus in South Africa's Free State province, but she is also widely respected as a church elder and community leader. Here, she touches on her leadership philosophy:
'My leadership style is about listening and learning. I listen actively and do not respond immediately, but ask questions. I believe it’s important to live and lead by example. In our community, we undertake small projects like cleaning the churchyard and sharing skills. When you are trusted, honest and fair, you will be a great leader.
"As an elder in the church, my role is to serve as a key spiritual leader and be responsible for the congregation’s spiritual well-being, guidance and direction. I also resolve congregational conflicts, settle disputes and oversee the church’s daily affairs. I intercede for the spiritual well-being of the flock, and pray for and visit the sick.
"GWF has shaped me into the leader I am today, guided by my core values of integrity, honesty and empathy. GWF taught me that you need to have a positive attitude towards the people you lead. We are a very small community, so when your attitude isn’t right, you won’t have the guiding principles to be a good leader.
"My leadership vision is to inspire change and personal growth through a shared vision, prioritise employees’ personal and professional development, and be approachable."
