Leadership Development Program

KSOS Leadership Development Programme (LDP)

• The Leadership Development Programme (LDP) was launched in 2022 as part of the KSOS Presidential Initiative of Dr. Arup Chakraborty. Guided by his foresight and commitment to building future-ready leadership, the programme has steadily grown in strength and purpose. Today, KSOS proudly celebrates the successful training of four batches of LDP participants, making it the first state ophthalmic society to establish its own structured leadership initiative.

• Designed as an intensive two-day residential experience, the LDP aims to identify, nurture, and empower the next generation of leaders across Kerala. The programme prepares young ophthalmologists to actively contribute to the organisational vision of KSOS and to take on meaningful leadership roles that will shape the society’s future.

• The workshops and interactive sessions focus on essential leadership competencies such as strategic planning, teamwork, communication, and ethical leadership. Participants benefit from the guidance and insights of experienced leaders, while also gaining valuable opportunities to network with emerging peers and established professionals across the state.

The Netrtva Series – LDP 1.0 and 2.0

• The initial two editions of the programme were conducted under the leadership of Dr. Natasha Radhakrishnan and were titled Netrtva 1.0 and Netrtva 2.0. Taking forward Dr. Arup Chakraborty’s visionary initiative, Dr. Natasha played a pivotal role in translating the concept of leadership development into a meaningful and well-structured learning experience. With thoughtful planning, attention to detail, and a deep understanding of the needs of young ophthalmologists, she ensured that the programme moved beyond conventional lectures and evolved into an engaging, reflective, and transformative journey for participants. Her leadership laid a strong foundation for the LDP, setting high standards in content, organisation, and participant engagement that continue to guide subsequent editions.

• Netrtva 1.0, held at Indriya Sands, Kuzhipilly, Kochi, on October 29th and 30th, 2022, brought together 16 participants for a transformative learning experience, marking the beginning of KSOS’s structured leadership journey.

• Netrtva 2.0, conducted at PJ Princess Regency, Vypeen, was inaugurated by Dr. Saikumar, KSOS Past President (2023). The programme welcomed 16 enthusiastic participants from across Kerala, creating a vibrant environment for learning, collaboration, and professional growth.

• Both editions were facilitated by Mr. Arun B. Nair from Parivartan Corporate Training Academy. His sessions encouraged leaders, teams, and individuals to pause, reflect, and grow in ways that inspire meaningful and lasting change rather than momentary motivation.

Leadership Development Programme – 2024

• The 2024 LDP was conducted on October 5th and 6th at Isola Di Cocco Resort, Poovar, Trivandrum, under the guidance of Dr. Ambika Shetty. Stepping into the role after the successful Netrtva series, Dr. Ambika Shetty ensured a seamless transition while preserving the strong foundation laid by her predecessor. With clarity of vision and thoughtful planning, she carried the programme forward with renewed energy, maintaining its core values while introducing a refined structure that enhanced participant engagement and experiential learning. Her ability to blend continuity with innovation allowed the LDP to evolve naturally, strengthening its identity as a flagship KSOS initiative.
• The programme was inaugurated by KSOS Past President (2024), Dr. Thomas Cherian, and featured inspiring sessions by senior ophthalmologists who shared valuable insights drawn from their personal and professional journeys. Their candid reflections added depth and authenticity to the leadership conversations.

• With participation from 24 delegates across Kerala, the event emphasized interactive and experiential learning. Navaz and Jehan Hilloowala from Training in Corporate led engaging activities that strengthened teamwork, communication, and collaboration through thoughtfully designed exercises, creating an atmosphere of enthusiasm, openness, and shared growth.

Leadership Development Programme – 2025

• The 2025 LDP was held at The Travancore Heritage, Trivandrum, on September 6th and 7th, under the guidance of Dr. Ambika Shetty. The programme was inaugurated by KSOS Past President (2025), Dr. Mahesh G.

• Facilitated by George Thomas of Life Chefs, the programme welcomed a focused intake of 13 participants. The sessions encouraged self-reflection, purposeful leadership, and personal growth, reinforcing the KSOS vision of cultivating leaders who lead with empathy, integrity, and clarity.

• Through each edition, the KSOS Leadership Development Programme continues to evolve as a vibrant platform for learning, mentorship, and collaboration. By investing in its future leaders today, KSOS strengthens its commitment to excellence, service, and progressive growth within the ophthalmic community of Kerala.