Puatala Launches VAKA Leadership Training

Puatala recently delivered the first session of its VAKA Leadership Training for LM4 Group, with a strong focus on effective communication. This opening session explored three core components of communication — verbal language, tone, and body language — and how each plays a critical role in leadership effectiveness.

Key Takeaways

Verbal LanguageLeaders explored the importance of clear and intentional messaging. The session highlighted how purposeful language helps build trust, alignment, and stronger connections within teams.

Tone

Participants examined how tone shapes how messages are received. Through practical exercises, leaders practiced adjusting their tone to suit different leadership scenarios, recognising how tone can motivate, reassure, or de-escalate situations.

Body LanguageThe session also focused on non-verbal communication, including posture, gestures, and eye contact. Leaders reflected on how body language can reinforce or undermine spoken messages, and why awareness of non-verbal cues is essential when leading others.

Growth and Reflection

Interactive activities encouraged participants to reflect on their own communication styles, identify areas for improvement, and define what effective leadership communication looks like in practice. The session provided practical strategies to strengthen team dynamics and build trust through more mindful communication.

Moving Forward

This first session sets the foundation for the wider VAKA Leadership journey, with additional components designed to support the holistic skill set leaders need to guide their teams through a cultural lens. With a stronger understanding of effective communication, participants are better equipped to foster collaboration and lead with greater impact as the programme progresses.