Leadership Model
How We Develop Leaders
GLLA’s leadership model is grounded in the belief that effective leadership develops over time — through reflection, connection, and engagement with complex systems.
Overview
Leadership is not just about what we do — it’s about who we are, how we relate to others, and how we engage with the systems around us.
Our model focuses on three interconnected areas of development:
- Self
- Relationships
- Systems
Together, these form a progression that supports leaders in growing their awareness, strengthening their connections, and expanding their impact.
Self: Understanding who you are and how you show up
Leadership begins with self-awareness.
In this domain, participants explore their identity, values, emotions, and patterns of behavior. They develop the ability to pause, reflect, and lead with greater clarity and intention.
This includes:
- Building emotional awareness and literacy
- Clarifying core values and purpose
- Understanding identity, power, and perspective
- Practicing reflection and curiosity
Guiding question:
"Who am I, and how do I show up as a leader?"
Relationships: Leading with and through others
Leadership is inherently relational.
This domain focuses on building trust, navigating difference, and strengthening the ability to communicate and collaborate effectively. Participants develop the skills needed to engage others with openness, empathy, and accountability.
This includes:
- Building trust and creating brave spaces
- Practicing deep listening and dialogue
- Navigating conflict and giving feedback
- Working across differences and perspectives
Guiding question:
"How do I lead with and through others?"
Systems: Leading for impact in complex environments
Leadership does not happen in isolation — it happens within systems.
In this domain, participants learn to see the bigger picture, understand interconnected challenges, and lead in ways that create meaningful and lasting change.
This includes:
- Developing systems thinking and awareness
- Navigating complexity and ambiguity
- Engaging across sectors and boundaries
- Leading for the common good
Guiding question:
"How do I lead for lasting, systemic change?"
Each GLLA program engages in this model in different ways:
- The Emerging Leaders Program (ELP) focuses on Self and Relationships, building a strong foundation for how leaders show up and connect with others.
- The Leadership Advancement Program (LAP) deepens Relationships and expands into Systems, supporting leaders navigating complexity and creating broader impact.
- Workshops and trainings offer focused learning within one or more domains, depending on the needs of the group or organization.
Why This Approach Matters
The challenges leaders face today are complex, interconnected, and constantly evolving.
Developing leadership capacity requires more than technical skills—it requires the ability to reflect, relate, and respond thoughtfully within dynamic systems.
This model supports leaders in building that capacity over time.
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