Sister Lydia Mbuya stands at the heart of St Anne Nyangoma Health Center, a figure both respected and deeply cherished by her colleagues. For years, she has worked quietly and tirelessly, ensuring patients receive the care they deserve and staff feel supported and equipped. “Every morning,” she says, “I check that all departments have what they need—medicines, supplies, and staff. It’s my responsibility to make sure nothing gets in the way of patient care.” Her diligence is not just routine; it’s a reflection of her commitment to her calling.

Everything changed when Sister Lydia participated in the Next Generation Leadership Programme (NGLP). The training shifted her perspective and gave her tools to improve the way the hospital functioned. “Before, we didn’t have clear policies or guidelines,” she recalls. “If there was a challenge, everyone just handled it the way they thought was best.” This lack of structure sometimes led to confusion or even conflict among staff members.

After her NGLP training, however, Sister Lydia returned with new energy and fresh ideas. She set about developing official policies—starting with a code of conduct and new guidelines for staff duties and dress codes. “I learned about the six building blocks of health system management,” she explains. “Developing clear policies was key. People need to know what’s expected of them.” Her new approach emphasized teamwork, with staff meetings and collective decision-making replacing the old top-down style.

One of the most significant changes was Sister Lydia’s private, compassionate manner of handling staff concerns. “If there’s an issue, I don’t call out anyone in public,” she says. “I invite them into my office and we talk one-on-one. It’s important to respect people’s dignity.” This created a culture of trust among her team, and staff began to feel more comfortable sharing their concerns and ideas. Colleagues have noticed the difference. One staff member shares, “Before, I was afraid to speak up. Now, I feel like my opinions matter.”

Recognizing the vulnerability of her patients and staff, Sister Lydia also introduced safeguarding and gender-based violence policies. She appointed a safeguarding officer and ensured that everyone received training on these protocols. “Everyone has the right to feel safe—patients and staff alike,” she asserts. “Thanks to NGLP, I had the confidence to introduce these changes.”

The effects of her leadership ripple outward. Staff development became a priority, with opportunities for training and professional growth made available to everyone. Timely payment of salaries, clear communication, and regular feedback sessions became hallmarks of her administration. “Take care of your staff,” she advises, “and they will take care of your patients.”

Sister Lydia is quick to credit NGLP for her transformation: “The scholarship opened doors for me, and it gave me the skills to lead with compassion and clarity. I wish more leaders in our health systems could benefit from this, because the impact multiplies.” Her wish is echoed by her colleagues, who now aspire to follow in her footsteps and take on new responsibilities.

In the words of Sister Lydia, “When your staff feel valued and you work together, you can achieve anything.” Through her example, she shows how one empowered leader—armed with knowledge, humility, and vision—can spark positive change that touches countless lives.