Sulaimani Leadership Conference

September 24-26, 2016

Komar University of Science and Technology

Komar Research Center

1.   Introduction

Sulaimani Leadership Conference (SLC) was an intensive three-days program, which took place in Komar University of Science and Technology, Sulaimani/Iraqi Kurdistan.

Participants benefited academically and socially as they worked closely with other young leaders from different colleges and universities and build enduring relationships. Students joined a distinguished faculty that includes PGLF founder Dr. Sam Potolicchio (Georgetown University). Dr. Potolicchio was named one of the “Best Professors in America” by the Princeton Review and the Future Leader of Higher Education by the American Association of Colleges and Universities.

2.   Eligibility of Participation

In order to be considered eligible to apply, you must fulfill the following criteria:

• Be between the ages of 18 and 35 years old;
• Proficiency in English language
• If you are a blogger
• An intern
• A volunteer
• A full-time student

3.   Conference location

The program took place in Komar University of Science and Technology, Business Building (B02)

4.   Conference objectives

Using techniques and tailored simulations normally reserved for national level political leaders, this conference is designed for those looking to enhance their ability to influence and persuade audiences. This conference will explore how to get audiences to “lend their ears” and to remember what is said, the two key requisites of influential communication by establishing instant credibility as a competent and trustworthy speaker.

5.   Conference Outcomes

By the end of the conference, participants will be able to:

• Develop innovative tools and approaches of persuasion and influence
• Identify the best methods to capture an audience and hold their attention
• Cultivate the cognitive processes to master verbal fluency
• Know the secrets of charisma and non-verbal persuasive skills
• Employ the most effective techniques in preparing for a speech or negotiation
• Identify effective techniques to increase productivity and improve decision making
• Understand how to overcome indecision
• Cultivate the techniques to utilize conflict and disagreement at the group and institutional level
• Learn how to synthesize information and ask the right questions
• Possess the skills to spot future trends and increase creativity
• Know how to use and control emotions to make critical decisions.

6.   Conference Sponsors

The main sponsors for this event were:

1. An anonymous business-man from Sulaimani
2. Komar University of Science and technology
3. Brivido Caldo café
4. Dawa Restaurant and Hotel

7.   Participants

There was a total of 38 participants. They came from different background and universities. Their names were: