“I recently had the pleasure of participating in the LMI Effective Personal Productivity Program facilitated by Wray Carvelas. The training was exceptionally well-structured, providing a comprehensive understanding of the various aspects of personal productivity.
Wray’s passion and deep knowledge of the subject matter had me instantly engaged. As a result of this program, I have witnessed a significant improvement in my ability to manage my time efficiently, set achievable goals, and enhance, not only my personal productivity, but the overall team’s productivity.
Throughout the program, Wray encouraged me to share and communicate my goals with the team. Simply sharing my goals and newly acquired experiences with the team was a game changer, as it fostered a positive work atmosphere and learning environment for everyone. The tools and techniques provided are now an integral part of my daily routine, leading to a positive impact on both my professional and personal accomplishments.
I wholeheartedly recommend Wray Carvelas and the LMI Effective Personal Productivity Program to anyone seeking to stretch, reach, and grow. The investment in this training will yield long-term benefits for both individuals and organizations alike!
Thank you, Wray for a transformative learning experience.”
Brent McFarlane, Project Coordinator Supervisor at Newgold
I recently participated in the LMI Effective Leadership Development (ELD) program, and I was extremely satisfied with the experience. The training was well-structured and provided valuable insights into what it takes to be an effective leader. Throughout the program, I felt fully engaged and supported. The facilitators were knowledgeable, approachable, and always willing to answer any questions that I had. I appreciated the way they encouraged us to think critically and challenge our assumptions about leadership. The program was also highly interactive, with a range of activities that allowed me to practice my leadership skills on-the-job and receive feedback from my peers. I found this to be incredibly valuable, as it helped me to identify my strengths and areas for improvement. Perhaps most importantly, the program provided me with actionable strategies for improving my leadership skills and behaviors. I left the program with a clear sense of how I could apply what I had learned each day, making a truly positive impact on my team, my family, and my life.
Overall, the ELD program was a life-changing experience for me. It was an enriching and engaging experience that helped me to transform my leadership skills and feel more confident in my role. It also worked to transform my personal life, as a husband and father. I would highly recommend it to anyone who is looking to become a great leader, in business and at home. Manuel Manana – Asset Protection Manager, New Gold
The course load for LMI Effective Leadership Development (ELD) program was very demanding and intensive, especially for someone with English as a second language. I had to spend extra time reading and understanding the course materials and requirements. I felt stressed initially, however, with additional help and support from Wray, I adapted and really enjoyed the program. The level of engagement exhibited by Wray and Aiden as facilitators was extraordinary. I really appreciated their support.
My husband completed the Effective Leadership Development program, and I am very impressed with the growth I have seen in him as a leader. He is showing a remarkable improvement in his ability to communicate effectively, build positive relationships, and solve problems collaboratively. Before the program, Manuel tended to dominate conversations and struggle with active listening. However, after completing the program, he is showing a greater ability to engage in meaningful dialogue with others and consider their perspectives. This is helping him to build stronger relationships with colleagues, family and friends and is developing a more collaborative approach to problem-solving.
Additionally, Manuel is showing a greater understanding of the importance of emotional intelligence in leadership. He is more aware of his own emotions and the impact they have on others, and he is able to use this knowledge to build a more positive and supportive environment. Overall, I am impressed with Manuel’s growth as a leader after completing the Effective Leadership Development program. He has a stronger commitment to developing his skills and a willingness to apply what he has learned in his life and his job. He is now a better listener, friend, husband, and parent. I have no doubt that he will continue to excel as a leader and make a positive impact on our family and his job. Dr. Milka Matos de Manana – Biochemical Pharma & wife of Manuel
One of the most important goals I accomplished through the program was that my time management skills and personal productivity have improved dramatically by focusing on my high-payoff activities. I set challenging but reasonable target dates and track my progress on all my important projects. Taking daily actions to accomplish my goals, and tracking my progress helped to keep my projects organized, on schedule, and motivated me to perform each day.
Another remarkable experience about this program was the mentoring process that was instilled and to be mentored by my colleague who has extensive experience in the mining industry, had a huge impact on me. My mentor not only provided me with a wonderful learning experience but also coached me to the success I have realized. I hope to have an opportunity to mentor others, and so contribute to this cycle of learning and development within the company. Jimbo Zheng – Chief Assayer, Newcrest
I was fortunate to participate in the LMI Effective Leadership Development (ELD) program early in my new role as HR Superintendent. The discussions amongst the group allowed me to learn from my colleagues’ experiences and the coaching from facilitators with extensive experience in the mining industry gave me confidence in the process. The program is a lot of work, but the potential learning is relative to one’s commitment to all aspects of the program including homework, classroom discussion and self-reflection. The greatest value I saw was the identification of, and repeat focus on, priorities that provide the most value to not only our teams and organization but also our personal life. I would recommend this program to any organization looking to grow their leadership teams’ potential.
Brianna Maurer, CPHR – Human Resources Superintendent, New Gold
“I clearly recall our first meeting with Wray. He had just been appointed as CEO of a multi national engineering firm and at that first meeting he shared his ambition to build the business and expand its footprint globally. This could only be done, he emphasized, through people. As THINKspiration we had the privilege to partner with him and translate that business strategy into a compelling story aimed at developing leaders and engaging employees at all levels. Wray’s understanding of our process and his authentic leadership, and commitment to always putting people first, made him a dream client. It’s rare to work with someone who combines a systematic approach that ensures that nothing falls through the cracks with a deep caring about and passion for people. Many claim they know how to create a high performance environment that brings out the best in every employee…Wray has actually done it! And is passionate about sharing his wisdom to help equip tomorrow’s leaders today.” – Tracey Swanepoel – THINKspiration
“Wray was a client of mine for a number of years and was the CEO of a major group where I supported him in the areas of Leadership Competence assessments, Development and the role out of Business Values. His role in driving effective Operational, People and Value Leadership at all levels astounded me as a consultant. His belief in true leadership and driving agreed values at all levels had a major positive impact on the objectives we wanted to achieve in respect of Leadership Behaviour shifts at an Individual, Team and Organizational level across continents. I ascribe these shifts to his excellence as a Leader of a major organization in all respects. Wray’s inspiration, passion, integrity and his foresight in respect of positioning a Business strategically for future success, were key attributes as a Leader contributed significantly to the Group’s success internationally. He is innovative and pragmatic in his approach which is a major asset for organizations in his current role.” Ben Spies – Chairman, Competence Lab
“I met with Wray almost 10 years past, when I was looking for an engineering company to build a US$4B metallurgical facility. Wray was the CEO, charged to establish a beachhead in North America, for a South African engineering company. Over the years, I have worked with Wray as a client, to build a mine in Brazil and as a member of his Leadership Team, to develop projects in Canada and Brazil. I have witnessed the successful expansion of his engineering company, through organic growth and acquisition of several related companies. A principle strength for Wray and a foundation of his company culture and success, has been Leadership based upon active empathy, strategic planning and accountability, to develop people and integrate several cultures. Wray develops and delivers High Performance Teams, with requisite results in a manner that seems easy. In practice, this is a result of systematic engagement, follow up and meaningful support of each stakeholder.” Dave Anthony – COO Cardinal Resources & Ex-COO Barrick Africa
“Wray is the synergy of a rigorous results-focused strategist and compassionate people developer. Through this synergy he has lead people to accomplish strategic projects on scales that span the globe. It is easy for c-suite executives to be so involved with complex strategies that sight is lost for the boots-on-the ground. Leadership Development is often just a “to-do” in strategy. Wray’s approach linking strategy and people firmly equips leaders with the behaviours designed into your strategic scenarios. What makes Wray unique is his experience and expertise developing leaders across your supply chain in countries under-served, with training and coaching opportunities to build competent and effective leaders. Strategies that don’t consider the remote, front line supervisor, often outside of your company, are destined to fail at these weak points. My personal experience with Wray has witnessed his C-suite prowess working with executives in a global enterprise reaching to a client base and supply chain across continents. I’ve also witnessed this same man build contractor front line leaders into their company masters. Most importantly, I’ve witnessed Wray’s unwavering caring for his people, and for those his companies impact. Wray’s mission to positively impact the world will show up in your strategy when you work with him as you build sustainable futures for your entire enterprise.” Dr. Tim Ludwig – Author; Professor – Appalachian State University; Behavioral Safety Specialist; Commissioner – Cambridge Center for Behavioral Studies
“Nothing is more impressive, than when a newly appointed CEO passionately focuses on what needs to be done in terms of the alignment and buy-in of all employees to the company strategy. Especially if that strategy takes the company out of its comfort zone into a brave and unknown future. This was the context in which I first met Wray, at DRA’s Johannesburg offices, shortly after he had been appointed CEO. During the course of the work we did together with him and his team, I got to know a man who is indeed one of those unique creatures – not only an engineer to his core – but someone who cares for people, truly and deeply. His systematic approach to helping people and the organization as a whole to perform at a higher level was unique and inspiring. It’s exciting to see someone with Wray’s proven track record set out to pass on his skills and insights to other CEO’s, companies and the next generation of business leaders.” Bernard Swanepoel – Company Director; Mining Entrepreneur; Ex-CEO Harmony Gold
“If I have to describe the LMI program, I could say: It was the necessary moment to my life. Necessary to the person I became and to recall on a regular basis to never mess up the journey. I don’t look to the program from a professional perspective. The big change with me was on a personal level. This program serves as a constitution for me that I can go back to whenever I get confused. It is easy to keep describing the program, but could any other program be any better than teaching someone how to build a life and how to be a better version of oneself?” Hiba Nasr, LMI Client of the Year 2020
“This (Effective Leadership Development ) program was a lot of work, but the results have made it very worthwhile as I have learned skills that have helped me both professionally and personally. Aiden and Wray did a good job at facilitating the Effective Leadership Development training and making themselves available at any time. It is clear there is a lot of intentional work and dedication to become an effective leader. I can see how the power of effective leadership can inspire greater performance and potential in a team and organization.” Irene Bidinger, Vice President of Human Resources at Pretivm Resources Inc.
“I have been a supervisor for the majority of my career which began in the mid 80’s and have taken several supervisory courses in that time. The content of your course combined with the presentation of the materials is head and shoulders above anything that I have taken in the past. I have recommended the course to family members that have their own companies as well as colleagues at other mine sites and I have never done this before. I have certificates that are too many to count, yet yours is the only one that hangs proudly on my office wall. Thank you for everything.” Chris Main, Mine Superintendent at Newgold, Rainy River Mine
“I found the Effective Leadership Development program to be different from many other leadership programs that I have taken in the past. It combines many different aspects such as longer term projects, a mentorship program, personal coaching, and prolonged follow-up on skills to develop long lasting habits. The fact that this was presented by well experience mining industry leaders also separated it from most other leadership programs, and it really was a bespoke leadership experience. The way the program was structured, so that there were successive waves of participants that cascaded down mentor/mentee relationships, really brought together different talents within the company and built new connections throughout it. Overall, it was a fantastic experience and the value will be long lasting from it. Travis Murphy, Mine Manager at Pretivm Resources Inc.
“When recently I participated in the ELD, Effective Leadership Development Program, it immediately brought back many fond memories, when over twenty years ago that I was enrolled in the PROSUP – Professional Supervisor Program. At that time in my career, the PROSUP Program provided me with much needed supervisory and leadership skills development. Over the years I have seen many leaders who participated in the same leadership development programs move through the ranks to become not only corporate leaders within their companies, but leaders within the industry. As I journeyed through this ELD program, so effectively facilitated by Wray Carvelas and Aiden Carey, it reinforced the fact that the supervisory skills that enabled me to develop into an effective leader of people, are still alive and well. My journey through the ELD has not only helped me hone my leadership skills, it has also provided an answer to a question I had over twenty years ago; “Why are these leaders sharing their visions and goals?” Leaders ARE MADE, not born! The ELD program has not only proven the test of time but will definitely have a positive impact on all participants. I look forward to seeing where the young leaders of my graduating class take our company and the mining industry.” Darryl Ukrainetz, Mine Superintendent at Pretivm Resources Inc.
“At first, I was hesitant to take another supervisory or leadership development course, as I didn’t want another book to collect dust on my shelf. However, the way that this (Effective Leadership Development) program was structured was so very different, and nothing like I had expected. It was certainly a surprise and a whole lot more. The program held myself and other managers accountable to being consistent with module learnings, in addition to being able to apply these key learnings to both our personal and professional lives. What was really nice about the program was the fact that we would meet face to face with the other managers to discuss the key learnings from each session, and a minimum of once per month. It was also a great opportunity to be mentored by facilitators that have very relatable and extensive experience in the mining industry. The homework, monthly check-ins, and mentorship received by co-workers who had already gone through the program was invaluable. This experience definitely shed some light on how I can better manage my time through prioritizing high pay off activities in order to achieve the best performance for myself (both at work and in my personal life). This was definitely the best and most applicable leadership training I’ve ever received in my career thus far, and I hope that more professionals within the company have the same opportunity to take this training, including other companies and industries around the world. This experience brought me closer to other managers I work with, reinforced the decisions I was making are in line with company goals and values, and ensured the right decisions were being made for both myself, and my team. I can’t wait to see others in the company go through this program! Thank you Wray and Aiden for the wonderful mentorship and worthwhile experience!” Torence Sandhals, Environmental Superintendent at Newcrest Brucejack Operations
“The Effective Leadership Development (ELD) program offered by Ascencia Group and presented by Wray Carvelas and Aiden Carey was a great program with life-long lessons on how to become a better leader. The program was laid out in a straightforward manner with a perfect blend of self-learning, group sessions, mentoring and one-on-one development with both Wray and Aiden. The multi-faceted delivery of the course material is key to unlocking your full potential and helping to develop not only yourself, but your team members as well. The ELD program is highly recommended for all levels within organizations to further enhance their supervisor’s and manager’s leadership abilities, and to help achieve long lasting corporate success. The focus of the program on personal success and the relationship between the leader and their workers goes beyond many other ‘leadership’ courses that I have taken in the past.” Scott Laliberte, Metallurgical Superintendent at Newcrest Brucejack Operations.
“Working with Wray and Aiden was, and continues to be, a great moment in my personal and professional development. Having worked for 20 years in the industry, I felt that I had developed a personal “style” of leadership that I would continue with for the remainder of my career. Training with the Ascencia Group forced me to look closely at myself and ask what I wanted to be as a leader in the workplace and in life. The course load was intense and demanding, but after a very short period of time it helped me with clear techniques in increasing productivity, goal setting, and coaching of employees. The Effective Leadership Development program was very effective in getting our company’s leadership team more harmonized as we delivered goals to our different functional groups. I am most proud of the fact that I have used the skills taught to me to make those around me better at their job, and aiding in their career progression. This would not have been achieved without the personal mentorship provided…thank you Wray and Aiden.” Michael Yakimchuk, Mill Manager at Newcrest Brucejack Operations
“The Effective Leadership Development (ELD) program is unique, in my leadership training experience. This is due to its laser focus on value-added activities that benefit not only the organization but the individual participants. It is a difficult program to easily encapsulate in a few paragraphs due its scope from the introductory profile evaluation, through the understanding of the critical importance of the leadership role, focus on disciplined tracking, goal setting and accomplishment recognition, exercising authority, delegation and personnel development, motivation, problem solving, communications, skills development, team building, mentorship, and finally the adoption of new and long-lasting behaviours that graduates can draw upon for the remainder of their careers.
The level of engagement exhibited by Wray and Aiden is extraordinary, and one senses their deep and sincere investment in the success of the participants. Their respective achievements in industry commands respect and gives weight and depth to the lessons they impart. There is theory in the course, for sure, but ELD has a very practical foundation. There are resources provided all along the journey to support and improve leadership effectiveness.
The benefit of training key people in a common language of success, with a focus on individual and organizational excellence, that promotes collective breakthrough from good to great, should not be underestimated. The ELD program gives the blueprint and tools to make that happen.” Barry McDonough, Manager of Geological Operations at Newcrest Brucejack Operations