In March 2021 we facilitated a highly informative one-day programme for a group of interns at RBL (Republic Bank Limited). The main objective of this programme was to provide participants with valuable knowledge and information that could enable them to excel in the workplace. The two topics covered for this programme were Adulthood (Manhood &Womanhood) and Stress Management. However, we were severely limited in the number of activities and physical interaction that we usually facilitate due to the Covid-19 pandemic. As such, participants were seated according to social distancing regulations, and masks were worn throughout the programme.
Despite these restrictions, we can objectively say that this programme was a success. Most participants actively participated in the various activities and discussion around the two topics, providing examples of how they related to their lives in the world of work. We are usually able to recognize the plethora of ways in which we add value to our participants, and this was definitely the case in this programme. For example, one participant explained in relation to the topic of Stress Management, that she had no idea that there were two types of stress (eustress & distress), and that she was able to apply the two to various situations in her life. Providing participants with easy to follow and practical information that relates to their lives is one of the several objectives in our programme and is always satisfying to see.
The feedback received from the participants of the programme was most encouraging as it inspires us to do what we do. One participant stated, “I enjoyed the interactive nature of the programme as well as the abundance of knowledge that was provided. The programme as extremely eye opening and fun”. Another participant indicated, “The presenters were both confident and engaging, and I also loved the topics that were covered”. When asked what improvements could be make to the program, someone stated, “It was a good training programme that was extremely helpful. It was perfect”. The purpose of this programme was to provide the interns with knowledge and information about being a successful adult in the workplace and life in general, as well as techniques to effectively manage stress. We fervently believe that each participant was able to leave with at least one valuable piece of information that may contribute to them being the best version of themselves both in and out of the workplace. Various issues and challenges were brought to the forefront by the participants during this programme, with which we were able to provide useful and realistic techniques to overcome them as best as possible.