Mihaela Mereuța, Principal Inspector within the Planning and Evaluation Directorate of the General Compliance Department, highlighted that the training helped her see learning as much more than the transfer of information. “I realized that this course was not only about acquiring information, but also about engagement, collaboration, and experiential learning.” She noted that the practical exercises encouraged her to step outside her comfort zone, strengthen her facilitation and communication skills, and build confidence in conveying information clearly and effectively. She plans to apply these skills in her work with colleagues and in future training and presentation activities.

The importance of moving beyond information delivery was echoed by Liliana Șveț, Principal Inspector within the General Control Directorate, who said the workshop transformed her understanding of the trainer's role. “The role of a trainer goes far beyond simply delivering information. A trainer creates an environment in which participants feel engaged, heard, and motivated to learn from one another.” She recalled one exercise in particular that challenged her assumptions and left a lasting impression: “One of the exercises that left the strongest impression on me was the moment when I stood silently in front of a group while the participants observed me and wrote down their impressions. It was a moment when I felt vulnerable and was pushed out of my comfort zone, yet it was also an extremely valuable experience.”

According to Liliana, the exercise helped her better understand how she is perceived by others and reinforced the importance of a trainer's presence and first impressions in building a connection with participants. She also highlighted the practical examples and openness of the NBM trainers, which demonstrated how interactive learning can be designed and facilitated. Equally valuable was the opportunity to exchange perspectives with colleagues from different departments of the State Tax Service.

This emphasis on learning through interaction also resonated with Lilia Mihai, who particularly appreciated the workshop's highly participatory format. She noted that collaboration, idea sharing, and learning from colleagues created an open and constructive environment that encouraged both professional and personal growth. “I feel that I am no longer at the same point where I started, but several steps ahead in both my professional and personal development.” For Lilia, one of the most significant outcomes was gaining practical tools for managing emotions when speaking in front of a group. She explained that the sessions on emotional intelligence and emotion management helped increase her confidence as a trainer. The experience also reinforced the importance of empathy and non-verbal communication in building effective relationships and preventing conflicts.

While Lilia focused on personal development, Vadim Miron, Senior Inspector in the General Directorate for Legal Expertise, highlighted the immediate practical value of the workshop. Reflecting on feedback received from trainers and peers, he said the experience helped him identify both strengths and areas for improvement in his approach to training.“I have already started using the knowledge and skills gained during the workshop in my daily work.” He explained that he is already applying interactive methods to encourage participation, structure activities more effectively, and support team discussions. For Vadim, the experience strengthened not only his training skills but also his approach to teamwork and problem solving.

Despite approaching the workshop from different perspectives, all four participants shared a common conclusion: its value extends beyond the techniques and tools introduced during the sessions. They emphasized the potential of these skills to influence how learning takes place within teams and institutions. Mihaela highlighted the role of continuous learning and knowledge sharing in strengthening organizational culture, while Liliana highlighted the importance of supporting colleagues' professional development and promoting the exchange of best practices. Vadim pointed to the long-term benefits that stronger training skills can bring to both individuals and organizations. For Liliana, this broader understanding of the trainer's role remains one of the program's most important takeaways: “The value of a trainer lies not only in what they know, but above all in their ability to inspire, create meaningful connections, and transform knowledge into a learning experience that stays with people long after a course has ended.”

For all four participants, the Training of Trainers workshop became more than an opportunity to strengthen presentation and facilitation skills. It prompted them to rethink how people learn and how, as trainers, they can create the conditions for effective learning and continuous development within their institution.