A Transformative Journey in Leadership: Discovering the Elixir of European Liberalism
A Transformative Journey in Leadership
As the South Asia Programs Manager for Students For Liberty (SFL), an organization dedicated to providing a platform and network for student leaders of Liberty across eight countries in South Asia, I recently had the profound privilege of participating in an intensive training program at the Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom’s (FNF) International Academy for Leadership (IAF) in Gummersbach, Germany. This invaluable opportunity, generously sponsored by the FNF South Asia office and the IAF itself, focused on "Moderation: Facilitation and Program Design," a critical skill set for catalyzing gatherings within Classical Liberal movements.
Reimagining Gatherings: The Core of the Seminar
The seminar’s core objective resonated deeply with my work: to transform ordinary student gatherings—be they meetings, workshops, or conferences—into extraordinary experiences that truly connect people, spark ideas, and drive decisive action. In the context of liberal organizations, this means creating spaces where values are not just discussed but are actively embodied, fostering communities that are mobilized, and bringing the vision of a freer world to life.
Under the expert guidance of facilitators Marike Groenewald and Clinton du Preez from South Africa, the program engaged participants on two crucial levels: "The Being of Facilitation" and "The Doing of Facilitation". The former delved into cultivating one's unique facilitation style, purpose, values, and the ability to build empathy-based relationships while fostering self-awareness. The latter focused on practical program design, expanding our skills toolbox with innovative methodologies and approaches to organize relevant and meaningful events.
Key learnings from the "Doing" aspect included understanding the importance of creating a 'Container' where participants feel safe, valued, and connected, and fostering a ‘Thinking Environment’ where everyone can think at their best, drawing inspiration from Daniel Kim's Rove Cycle of Success. We explored the nuances of "Stakeholder Management" and "Power Dynamics," learning that the ideal ratio between appreciation and criticism is 5:1, and applying the 'MECE' (Mutually Exclusive, Collectively Exhaustive) Principle to avoid overlaps and gaps in design. The seminar also equipped us with diverse methodologies to optimize both in-person and online events, guiding us through the entire cycle of event design—from conception to post-event evaluation.
The participants had the pleasure of attending an incredibly thought-provoking session titled "The Global State of Liberalism 2025+" led by the brilliant Sven Gerst, a contemporary philosopher and political economist. This didn't just feel like a typical lecture; he transformed modern-day issues and ideas into engaging memes, making the whole experience not only insightful but also super fun! It really opened our eyes to the broader significance of our work in a way that was both exciting and memorable.
Furthermore, sessions on utilizing empathy-based tools, understanding the Autonomous Nervous System (ANS) in dealing with different human states (Ventral Vagal, Sympathetic, Dorsal Vagal), and addressing common challenging facilitation scenarios provided practical guidelines. We also explored event trends, modern practices, scripting methods, and the power of visualization and Open Space Conversations, alongside insights into Schein's Three Levels of Organizational Culture. The seminar’s methodology was fully experiential and deeply participatory, allowing ample opportunity to apply concepts to our own organizational events and receive continuous feedback. The practical highlight was undoubtedly the ‘Facilitation Simulation of a Regional Liberal Forum’, where all 28 participants, divided into four teams, collaboratively designed and executed a real-time event. This hands-on experience solidified our understanding of the methodologies learned and fostered significant team bonding.
The diversity of the cohort was a significant asset, with 28 participants hailing from 23 countries, including Czechia, Georgia, Germany, Hungary, India, Indonesia, Israel, Kenya, Korea, Lithuania, Malaysia, Mexico, Morocco, Nicaragua, Peru, Romania, Serbia, South Africa, Thailand, Tibet, Turkey, Ukraine, and Zimbabwe. This global perspective enriched every discussion and practical exercise. By the end of week one, the cohort had united into one powerful family of changemakers of the global liberal order.
Theodor Heuss Academy & IAF
The International Academy for Leadership is nestled within the serene residential campus of the Theodor Heuss Academy (THA) in Gummersbach. This idyllic setting, with its lush green views and tranquil atmosphere, also houses an invaluable Archive of Liberalism, a treasure trove of German and European liberal history. The THA, with its comprehensive facilities including a library, gym, laundry, sauna, and various recreational options, truly felt like an all-in-one learning center—a place where one could easily fall in love with the environment and the people. For many FNF scholars and leaders of liberty globally, the THA hill symbolizes the very home of 'freedom' and 'liberal republican democracy.'
Beyond the Academy: Liberal Impressions and Germany's Charm
My learning journey extended beyond the seminar rooms of IAF. My arrival in Berlin came at a challenging time for Germany's Free Democratic Party (FDP), which has recently endured electoral setbacks. As contemporary liberal philosopher Sven Gerst pointed out, the FDP is "at a crucial moment, … closer to irrelevancy than many would assume." For the FDP to regain its pivotal role in Europe, it is absolutely essential to deeply re-engage with its core classical liberal values it champions. These principles are fundamental, not just for sustaining a thriving free-market economy in Germany, but also for driving global economic development. It's worth recalling how the FDP played a pivotal role in shaping the post-war economic miracle in Germany, paving the way for growth and prosperity that a lot of other nations have modeled since. This phenomenon is echoed by American economist Deirdre McCloskey’s "hockey stick" graph, which vividly illustrates the remarkable economic growth that the world witnessed since the mid-20th century.
As part of the IAF Seminar study excursion, all participants had the opportunity to explore some beautiful cities in Germany, including Cologne (Köln) and Heidelberg. While Cologne, the closest major city to Gummersbach, boasts its magnificent Cathedral, delightful fragrances and vibrant beverages and embodies the German dream for many, the Heidelberg experience truly stood out. This picturesque, historic town, complete with a castle towering over the city, a charming bridge running across a scenic river, offers stunning views of a green hillside with inspiring walking trails and hikes. Home to the oldest university in Germany, Heidelberg is often referred to as the German Cambridge, and I couldn’t agree more. Anyone who visits Heidelberg and takes the time to wander through the old town, explore the castle, and stroll along the ‘Philosopher’s Walk’ is sure to enjoy a kind of mental retreat, emerging with fresh and productive ideas, just as I did. Additionally, I made it a priority to connect with the Indian diaspora in Berlin and Heidelberg, gaining insights into their perspectives on India, Germany, and Europe as a whole.
Throughout my time in Germany, I actively engaged in conversations with millennial economists, philosophers, activists, and everyday citizens in Berlin, Cologne, Heidelberg, and Gummersbach. I was particularly impressed by German federalism, which masterfully balances unity with the celebration of each state's unique identity. Each state holds its own significance, and the vibrant character of every city contributes to the nation's spirit, supported by the richness of rural areas. In my view, the German governance system, despite its shortcomings, presents an excellent model for nation-[re]building without compromising on the Natural Law rights of Life, Liberty and Property of individuals, as propounded by John Locke. Following the intellectual path of Friedrich Hayek, who emphasized the importance of Local Knowledge over centralization, I am grateful to have deepened my understanding, I'm grateful to have refined my understanding of German and, to some extent, European Liberalism through intense discussions with people like Krijn van Eeden, the Pool of Trainers Manager at the International Federation of Liberal Youth (IFLRY), Bettina Solinger, Director of the International Academy for Leadership, Sven Gerst, Lukas Prandzioch, FNF Staff and even insightful walking tour guides.
To further enrich the understanding of German liberal thought, it is worth reflecting on the words of Theodor Heuss, 1st President of the Federal Republic of Germany (West Germany): "The state must be strong enough to preserve the freedom of its citizens, but not so strong as to endanger that freedom."
Carrying the Torch Forward
The IAF seminar on "Moderation: Facilitation and Program Design" has been a transformative experience for me, providing invaluable knowledge and practical skills that I am eager to implement in my role at Students For Liberty as a next-generation project manager. The insights I gained into crafting dynamic, empowering, and impactful gatherings will play a crucial role in igniting the flame of liberty and fostering a sense of responsible liberal leadership among young leaders in South Asia. Additionally, the seminar highlighted the significance of the facilitator's mindset—the core values, empathy, and presence needed to inspire and empower participants effectively.
I extend my deepest gratitude to the Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom’s South Asia office and the International Academy for Leadership for this exceptional opportunity. This journey has not only enhanced my professional capabilities but has also deepened my appreciation for the global liberal movement and its dedicated proponents. I am confident that the lessons learned will enable me to contribute more effectively to fostering a freer and more just world through SFL's network of students in South Asia and Southeast Asia. The bond between the two great nations, the Republic of India (Bharat) and the Federal Republic of Germany (Deutschland), has never been stronger in terms of diplomacy, trade, and personal connections. Let’s continue to do so much more to bring mutual benefits and make meaningful contributions to the world.