Program results
The Future Leaders of Estonian Civil Society Organizations leadership development program enhanced participants’ knowledge, skills, and attitudes as leaders, increasing their motivation and readiness to take on greater responsibilities within civil society organizations (CSOs). While the direct beneficiaries were the participants themselves, the impact extends to the organizations they work for or will join in the future, as leaders with strong competencies contribute more effectively to organizational capacity.
A key focus of the project was to highlight the role of CSO leaders as equal counterparts to leaders in other sectors. As part of the initiative, a competency model for CSO leaders was developed. This model serves as a practical tool for:
- Self-assessment, evaluation, and professional development;
- Recruitment and selection of leaders;
- Recognition of leadership achievements;
- Succession planning within organizations.
A total of 23 participants successfully completed the leadership development program, demonstrating their increased confidence and willingness to take on leadership roles in the future.
During the project, efforts to establish leadership networks also began, as there was interest from CSO leaders—both program participants and those not selected—to engage in peer exchanges and apply the competency model as a practical resource.
One of the key long-term outcomes is the widespread adoption of the competency model as a valuable tool for self-assessment, recruitment, motivation, and professional development within the CSO sector.
NENO continues to develop and update the model, as well as its engagement with current and future CSO leaders, beyond the project’s completion. Encouraged by the model’s success, NENO has begun planning similar initiatives focused on specialized leadership areas, such as advocacy competencies.
Additionally, the project has played an important role in raising awareness of the significance of CSO leadership and its crucial role in strengthening and advancing civil society.
