Anticipation and Excitement: Bringing Leadership Development to Abu Dhabi
by David Casullo author of Leading the High-Energy Culture: What the Best CEOs Do to Create an Atmosphere Where Employees Flourish
As I prepare to embark on an exciting new journey in Abu Dhabi, I can’t help but reflect on the significance of bringing leadership development to such a remarkable place. The UAE, particularly Abu Dhabi like Dubai, has become a global hub of innovation, culture, and growth, making it the perfect setting for this next chapter in Daneli’s work… and also for stretching my vision for Little Falls, the Mohawk Valley, and the broader CNY region.
When I think of Abu Dhabi, I envision a city that beautifully merges tradition with forward-thinking ambition. The architecture alone, with its blend of historical influences and futuristic designs, mirrors the leadership principles I hope to cultivate—grounded in strong values yet adaptable to the challenges of the future.
What excites me most about this program is the opportunity to engage with local leaders who bring unique perspectives shaped by the region’s rich heritage, unique culture, and dynamic vision for growth. The UAE is home to some of the most visionary initiatives in sustainability, technology, and community building, and I look forward to contributing to that narrative through leadership development.
This Daneli program will focus on equipping leaders with the tools they need to excel, using frameworks like Ken Blanchard’s Situational Leadership II (SLII). What stands out about SLII is how adaptable it is across cultures and contexts. Whether it’s a high-powered executive in Abu Dhabi or a community leader in a small town like Little Falls in upstate New York, leadership is about knowing how to meet people where they are and helping them grow from there. It’s a universal truth that I’m eager to explore in a new setting.
From what I’ve learned, the leaders here value a balance of tradition and innovation, much like leaders here in the Mohawk Valley, where optimal success in our programs delivered here is a function of our flexibility to deliver specialized excellence depending on where someone is in their personal development. I anticipate rich discussions on how leadership principles align with both Emirati culture and the goals of that country moving forward.
This opportunity to contribute to leadership development in such a thriving region is truly a privilege. I am confident Daneli will have an impact, AND, as important, that the experience will prompt ideas for meaningful growth back here not only for me but also for the individual leaders, the companies and the communities they represent.
Stay tuned! I will report out how things went upon my return.
