A Journey That Started with Curiosity

Stanislav Cebotari: "When I first received the announcement about joining the second cohort of the LIONS community within the LearnOrgLab project, I hesitated. Like many others, I feared the unknown. But that feeling didn’t last long. Seeing the enthusiasm of the first cohort inspired me to just go for it – and I have zero regrets. The people, the energy, and the unique learning environment make this project truly special."

Liudmila Ichim: "I had similar feelings of surprise at the start. Coming from a background focused on data and statistics, I expected traditional training. Instead, I stepped into a space built on interaction, reflection, and co-creation. It was a shift from absorbing information to co-developing knowledge – a refreshing experience that changed how I see my role."

Stepping Out of the Comfort Zone

Valeria Iordatii: "One of the defining moments for me was the workshop in May 2025, facilitated by the TIGERS team from the Dutch Ministry of Finance. It was hands-on, challenging, and deeply engaging. The session pushed me to experiment with facilitation, communication, and reflection. I felt part of a learning community that was both intentional and energizing."

Vasile Leorda: "The activities within the LearnOrgLab project left a strong mark on me, particularly learning how to manage challenging audiences and balance goals with participants’ needs. Practicing these skills under expert guidance was invaluable. It helped me develop confidence and practical strategies that I now use when facilitating professional sessions."

Stanislav Cebotari: "I remember one exercise vividly – standing silently in front of an audience while they observed and wrote down their impressions. It was uncomfortable but deeply insightful. It taught me how others perceive me as a facilitator and how powerful first impressions can be."

Transforming Learning into Action

Liudmila Ichim: "What I took away most was a new understanding of learning itself. It’s not just about transmitting information – it’s about dialogue and shared reflection. This perspective now shapes how I present complex data: I focus on clarity, engagement, and connection. It’s made my communication more impactful and enjoyable."

Valeria Iordatii: "Soon after the training, I facilitated a painting workshop during NBM’s annual report event. I applied ToT techniques such as creating a psychologically safe environment and using guided reflection. The result was an engaging, creative atmosphere where people connected meaningfully. That experience gave me confidence to keep experimenting and growing."

Vasile Leorda: In my daily work, I now use these facilitation techniques when conducting legal training sessions. My activities have become more structured, efficient, and interactive – and the results are tangible. Participants are more engaged, and sessions run more smoothly."

Stanislav Cebotari: "The first opportunity to apply new skills came quickly – during hobby hubs at NBM’s annual event. It was a challenge but also a revelation. Feeling the group’s energy, adjusting intuitively, and using facilitation tools in real time was both demanding and rewarding."

Building Confidence and Connection

Liudmila Ichim: "These experiences transformed my confidence. I’m now more at ease when presenting complex information, and I see myself not just as a data producer but as a storyteller and connector. Communication has become more efficient and enjoyable, and I’ve noticed stronger collaboration both within my team and with external partners."

Valeria Iordatii: "Positive feedback from participants reinforced my belief that learning can be transformative when done with purpose. I’ve grown more self-assured in managing diverse groups and unexpected situations, which has strengthened my facilitation skills and my professional identity."

Vasile Leorda: "Hearing colleagues express confidence in my facilitation abilities was a powerful motivator. It confirmed that the methods I learned are working – and that I’m contributing meaningfully to collective growth."

Stanislav Cebotari: "For me, the real value became clear through the reactions of others. Seeing satisfaction and enthusiasm among participants was the best indicator that we’re on the right track."

From Personal Growth to Organizational Change

Liudmila Ichim: "One of the biggest insights from the project is that learning happens through connection – not in isolation. At NBM, this has sparked broader discussions about creating safe, open spaces for peer learning. It’s not always easy, but it’s deeply rewarding."

Valeria Iordatii: "The ToT program reshaped how I define success. It’s no longer just about perfect delivery, but about creating meaningful, transformative experiences. I’m excited to apply these skills in new internal learning sessions that will foster continuous development and collaboration."

Vasile Leorda: "The project also inspired colleagues across departments to join future ToT sessions. It’s creating a ripple effect of curiosity and professional growth – which I believe is the best investment any organization can make."

Stanislav Cebotari: "The LearnOrgLab has already started to build a new subculture at NBM – one based on openness, learning, and mutual growth. It’s an ongoing journey, and I’m proud to be part of it."

The experiences of Stanislav, Liudmila, Vasile, and Valeria show how learning together can spark transformation – not only for individuals but also for institutions. The NBM LearnOrgLab and its Training of Trainers initiative continue to cultivate a culture where learning is collaborative, purposeful, and alive – a place where people don’t just gain knowledge, but create value together.