Michael Gowon, an MAOL (Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership) student in Nigeria, shares how DAI’s courses have taught him to be a servant leader rather than a boss, whether in the office or in church. He is currently the Director of Planning, Research and Statistics (DPRS) of the Plateau State Universal Basic Education Board, as well as the Pastor of Jesus Revelation Assembly in Jos, Nigeria and the General Secretary of the Jesus Revelation Global Ministry.
Michael’s new-found leadership skills have helped him to better lead his team through effective management and decision-making. Michael shares:
“My new knowledge received from DAI has helped me a lot in discharging my assignment in the church and in the office. Knowing that everyone can be a leader regardless of temperament was a revelation to me. Discovering my behavioral style now helps me to relate with others in my team, office, and church. It is much easier understanding who they are and what they are capable of doing.”
He explains his experience with the Strategic Management course:
“The course provided me with fresh insights in developing innovative and change management plans. As the Chief Planning Officer of my organization, what I have learned about strategic planning is helping me ask relevant questions that will lead to the discovery of inputs from all relevant stakeholders.”
Two key learnings Michael uses throughout his daily life is to be a better listener, with his wife especially, and to recognize there is a lesson in every experience. He shares:
“In everything we are involved in, we [should] deliberately insist on a takeaway, a lesson we have learned, and what we intend to do for the better. This is making me more productive and effective as I am no longer only a listener, but I am also an avid doer of what I read and hear. The courses have corrected my worldview, and today what stands out for me is the truth that the Bible is complete and perfectly clear in its teachings. DAI has truly changed my perception about leadership, integrity and the role of women in ministry. I will ensure I transfer this new found understanding to as many as I can find around me, in my office, at church and in society. I know I am in the right place and I am looking forward to completing this soon and taking higher studies in leadership. I thank God for DAI, they are gradually changing me and I enjoy what I am gaining and learning and becoming.”
