Ports Authority Tonga (PAT) reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening leadership capability and workforce development through a full-day Leadership Development Training Programme held at PAT Headquarters on Tuesday, 20 October 2026.

Facilitated by leadership trainer Mr. Lenny Solomona, the programme brought together PAT Senior Management, Managers and Supervisors for interactive learning sessions focused on leadership effectiveness, personal growth, teamwork, and professional excellence.

The training covered four key modules: Developing a Growth Mindset – “As You Think, So Are You”; Passion IT; Personal Development – “I Grow, You Grow”; and Genuine Leadership.

Strengthening Leadership Mindsets and Personal Growth

The Growth Mindset module emphasised the importance of positive thinking, adaptability, continuous learning, and self-improvement. Participants explored how individual attitudes and leadership approaches influence workplace performance, staff motivation, and organisational success.

Under Genuine Leadership, Mr. Solomona highlighted that effective leadership extends beyond position, rank, or authority. Genuine leaders demonstrate integrity, accountability, humility, and trust while empowering others to contribute and succeed.

Discussions also explored the importance of balancing leadership authority with collaboration, open communication, and opportunities for staff to contribute, develop their capabilities, and reach their potential.

A key message reinforced throughout the programme was that leadership is measured not simply by the position an individual holds, but by the positive influence they create and the people they help develop.

Discovering Passion and Empowering Others

The Passion IT module encouraged participants to identify their personal and professional passions and understand how these contribute to motivation, resilience, productivity, and meaningful achievements.

Through group discussions and practical exercises, participants reflected on how individuals can discover their passions, the possibility of pursuing multiple passions, and the importance of passion in achieving personal and professional goals.

The Personal Development module, “I Grow, You Grow”, reinforced the value of continuous self-development, mentoring, knowledge-sharing, and creating opportunities for others to succeed. Participants reflected on the importance of personal accountability and recognised that individual growth contributes to the development of teams and the wider organisation.

Building a Stronger Leadership Culture at PAT

Throughout the programme, participants engaged in practical exercises, collaborative discussions, and shared learning experiences, connecting leadership principles with workplace challenges and opportunities within PAT.

The training concluded with positive feedback from participants, who acknowledged the value of the practical insights and lessons gained. These learnings provide a foundation for participants to strengthen their leadership approaches, encourage teamwork, support staff development, and contribute to a positive and productive workplace culture.

This initiative reflects PAT’s ongoing commitment to developing capable, accountable, and forward-thinking leaders. By investing in professional development, the Authority aims to promote a culture of continuous learning, strengthen organisational performance, and equip its Senior Management, Managers and Supervisors to better support staff and advance PAT’s strategic objectives.

Through these efforts, PAT continues to build a workforce committed to professional excellence and the delivery of safe, efficient, and quality port services to the people of Tonga.

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