Spring-UP Global Network (SUGN) continues to empower its vibrant volunteer community through transformative learning experiences. On July 19, 2025, as part of its Empowered by SUGN series, the organisation hosted a capacity-building webinar titled “Building Resilient and Adaptable Change-Makers.” The session was designed to equip volunteers with practical tools and strategies to thrive amidst the demands of academic, professional, and personal life.
The session was moderated by Ms. Philipa Sampson, Lead of SUGN’s People and Culture Unit. In her welcome address, she underscored the importance of cultivating mental resilience and practical strategies to navigate the multifaceted responsibilities volunteers often juggle.
The keynote speaker, Mr. Zachariah Zinnoba Bandiibu, Finance Lead at SUGN, brought a rich blend of experience as a financial professional, youth advocate, and former peer counselor. He opened with a thought-provoking question: “What do we understand by being resilient and adaptable?”—sparking insightful contributions from participants and setting the tone for a highly interactive session.
Mr. Bandiibu framed the discussion with religious and philosophical reflections, referencing Genesis 8:22 and Charles Darwin’s wisdom on adaptability. Using vivid metaphors and real-life examples, he introduced three core drivers of resilience:
- Activate Learning – Embrace growth during times of uncertainty and pressure.
- Strengthen Personal Adaptability – Cultivate a mindset that responds constructively to challenges.
- Reinforce with Purpose – Align actions with deeper personal and organisational meaning.
A standout moment of the session was the distinction between intentions and goal-based desires. Through practical scenarios, Mr. Bandiibu encouraged volunteers to focus on consistent effort and learning rather than rigid outcomes. This mindset shift was further explored through personal stories shared by participants, illustrating how beliefs shape performance and results.
The webinar also introduced the APR Model—a practical framework for building resilience:
- A – Awareness: Reflect on challenges and internal responses.
- P – Pause: Center yourself before reacting.
- R – Reframe: Find opportunities in adversity.
Mr. Bandiibu urged volunteers to embrace creativity, openness, and curiosity, cautioning against reactive and closed-minded behaviours that hinder growth in a rapidly changing world.
The session concluded with a Q&A session, final reflections from Ms. Akorfa Ama Akoto, Executive Director of SUGN, and a virtual group photo.
Volunteers left the meeting energised, equipped with actionable strategies to thrive as adaptable leaders in today’s dynamic landscape.
The Empowered by SUGN series is an ongoing initiative by the People and Culture Unit of Spring-UP Global Network to support volunteers in their personal and professional development journeys.
