DASIL 2.0: Transformative Leadership Bootcamp Empowers Global Leaders in Mombasa

The Dr. Abiola Salami International Leadership Bootcamp (DASIL) 2.0 has empowered senior leaders with key insights on the power of consistency for peak-performing leadership.

Held in Mombasa, Kenya in June 2024, DASIL 2.0 featured a distinguished panel of experts including Harvard University’s Prof. Dana Born; and seasoned Board Chair, Dr. (Mrs.) Mosun Belo-Olusoga; President Joe Biden’s White House Commissioner, Ray Jefferson and DASIL host and world-class Performance Strategist, Dr. Abiola Salami who led the learning sessions.

Building on the success of its inaugural edition in Nairobi the previous year, the week-long bootcamp was carefully crafted to foster leadership skills while providing a holistic experience for comprehensive positive changes in leadership.

The event’s structure balanced rigorous learning sessions with opportunities for adventure and relaxation in the coastal setting of Mombasa.

“This approach allowed participants to engage deeply with the material while also having time to reflect and apply their insights in a more relaxed environment,” says Dr. Salami.

He also highlighted the bootcamp’s goal of helping leaders make the most of their time to positively influence those they lead.

Stressing the importance of consistent actions in leadership, he said, “It is more of what we do consistently that impacts those we lead.” This philosophy underscores the bootcamp’s focus on developing sustainable leadership practices that can create lasting change in organisations and communities.

The DASIL 2.0 experience was designed to not only enhance participants’ leadership skills but also to inspire a transformative approach to leadership that goes beyond mere professional growth.

By combining intensive learning with personal development and relaxation, the bootcamp aimed to create well-rounded leaders capable of fostering growth and maturity consistently in their teams and organisations.

Resonating with Dr. Salami’s emphasis on consistency, Dr. Belo-Olusoga underscored the importance of authentic leadership. She advised participants, “You don’t know who is watching or who your actions are motivating. It’s about consistency. Be your authentic self. Let people know who you are.”

In her admonition, Prof. Born emphasised the importance of continuous learning and growth in leadership.

She encouraged leaders to adopt a learning mindset rather than categorising themselves as simply “good” or “bad” leaders. “Don’t just think about yourself as a good leader or a bad leader. You should be a learning leader”.

The DASIL 2.0 Bootcamp in Mombasa engaged participants in a variety of workshops focused on transformational leadership, leveraging tact and empathy, executive leadership, innovative problem-solving, and productive communication.

The event also explored the Harvard case study “Trial by Fire” and obtained insights from Jefferson who lead a discussion about the case.

With the new knowledge gained, the attendees expressed overwhelming satisfaction with the bootcamp, praising its well-rounded approach that combined professional development with personal enrichment.

They shared testimonials about their experiences. One attendee described the event as “a transformative experience,” highlighting how the blend of learning, wellness, and adventure equipped them with the tools and mindset needed for career excellence.

Another participant found the bootcamp to be life-changing and eye-opening, stating, “It is nothing like I imagined.” Echoing these sentiments, a third participant emphasised the importance of emotional intelligence in navigating challenges and criticisms.

They recommended that every leader take time away from their immediate environment to engage in a leadership experience like DASIL, noting the profound impact it had on their personal and professional growth.

The DASIL 2.0 bootcamp in Mombasa offered participants a series of exhilarating excursions, including safari visits to witness majestic wildlife, a trip to a marine park to explore rich marine biodiversity, and an enlightening tour focused on conservation and environmental stewardship.

Adventure enthusiasts enjoyed activities such as jet skiing, boat cruising along the stunning coastline, and snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, which provided opportunities to experience the vibrant underwater world firsthand.

These activities also fostered team-building and camaraderie among participants. The bootcamp concluded with a lively mini party, featuring music, dancing, and a festive ambiance.

This celebration allowed participants to unwind, reflect on their experiences, and forge lasting connections, providing a perfect end to an enriching week.

Following the success of DASIL 2.0, plans are already in place for DASIL 3.0, scheduled to take place in Marrakech from October 20 to 26 this year, with registration closing on 15th August 2024.

The host emphasised that the DASIL Bootcamp aims to continue providing a unique platform for senior leaders to reflect, re-strategise, reskill, rejuvenate, connect, and be inspired to deliver peak performance.