The IW Dst 332 Second training institute for 2026 was conducted on Saturday March 14. Nearly 50 Inner Wheel members and executives attended the training programme. To address the need for specific training for the incoming executive committees a special breakout section was developed to give clear guidelines on the roles and responsibilities of the President, Secretary and Treasurer.
For the general membership an entertaining and engaging process was used to invite reflection on International Understanding, some protocols, Friendship and Leadership Styles.
The session started with a message of encouragement from our district Chairman Rati Asrani who was so glad so many could be present for this second training.
To kick off the training, IPDC Maria Hassanbhai organized a surprise activity called ‘Unity Sparks’ on a note of friendship. Beautiful bracelets with clover shaped charms were given to each participant. They had to attach the charm to the bracelet and give it to the person on their right. Each one gifted the colourful bracelet that represented our diversity and unity had to say something about themselves. The participants came from the four different clubs, and it got us off to a warm start.
The first topic of the day was International Understanding, and is needed more today than ever before. Participants listed all the ways IW can contribute to International Understanding:
The role of the International Service Organiser was top of the list showing the importance of the ISO in a club. She can be the bridge to other clubs and other countries as well as being the contact person for IW visitors from other countries.
As IW Club members we belong to a District and to the IIW family. Attending District, International and Regional events and visiting neighboring districts are ways we can experience International Understanding.
Visiting clubs and attending IW functions in other countries since we travel extensively these days.
At the end of this segment, we played the Michael Jackson Song “We are the world”. The whole group rose, joined hands and moved around the room joining the chorus with deep conviction. It was spontaneous and magical.
When everyone sat down again, we addressed two ‘rituals’ in IW major events - the Lighting of the Candle of Friendship and the Three Toasts to our country, IIW and guests. Neeta Kapoor gave a great explanation of the three toasts and we got each table to practice doing the toasts. IPDC Maria explained place and purpose of the candle of friendship, when to light it and the poem we can read.
At this point the incoming Presidents, Secretaries and Treasurers left for their own session led by DS Diana Quek, DVC Dr Kim Ng and DT Janet Lim. They explained the roles and gave great tips on how to succeed in these positions.
The general group continued with the topic of Friendship. The question of what makes for great friendships was discussed in groups. There was some deep sharing at the tables and in the plenary discussion. We explored the way we listen to each other. Do our members feel they belong, are seen, heard and wanted? A key to making good friends is to be a great listener. The elements for good listening were discussed.
The third and last topic for the workshop was on how we participate and lead in our clubs. Our leadership style was the subject of a role-play. In debriefing on the leadership demonstrated in the role play we understood that certain leadership styles discourage participation and can stunt the growth of members and clubs. Many agreed that what is needed is collaborative but firm leadership. There were many laughs while doing a deeper dive into how we each participate in our clubs. The general session was led by DE Wendy Louis. The training was very well received.
Reported by DE Wendy Louis