Jawad Jumani – known as JJ – is Managing Director of Livingstone International Ltd which specialises in the sourcing and manufacture of bespoke clothing and accessories for customers and clients based in the UK, Europe, Africa and North America.

JJ has been a member of Jo’s peer-to-peer leadership coaching group for almost 6 years and shares his experiences of being in the group and reasons for joining,

Why did you decide to join Jo’s group?

“My primary motivation was clear: I wanted to grow and improve as a leader. There’s a saying often attributed to Confucius: “If you’re the smartest person in the room, then you’re in the wrong room.” While I’ve never been arrogant enough to claim that title, the essence of the quote resonates deeply with me. Being surrounded by brilliant individuals with unique perspectives provides invaluable insights I wouldn’t encounter otherwise. The peer-to-peer setting of Jo’s group amplifies the power of collective support. We are all there for one another – and in our leadership roles as heads of our respective organizations, that resource is truly priceless.”

What results were you getting before you joined the group?

“My journey to the group wasn’t a deliberate one. My business was growing rapidly, and while everything seemed fine, I felt the need for more structure. An introduction through a common organisation led me to a Vistage Summit, and the experience was transformative. The speakers and the educational insights were profound. My prior experience was rooted in working within the business, not on it. Conversations with Jo were candid and direct, which made me initially hesitant about committing so much time in my busy schedule. However, the group’s support helped me step back, breathe, and adopt a top-down perspective of my business – a shift from being entrenched in daily operations.”

What unexpected results have you achieved personally and professionally?

“Reflecting on my personal and professional growth, the changes are subtle yet significant. Week to week or month to month, progress can seem imperceptible – but over five years, the trajectory of my development is clear. Others have noticed changes in me that I hadn’t fully appreciated myself. The structured approach and mindset I’ve developed are directly attributable to this group. I’m a much more evolved leader now, thanks to this continuous journey.”

How has the group influenced your personal growth?

“One of the most significant benefits of being a member of the group is the accountability it provides. As a leader, it’s rare to find people who are candid and direct with you. Here, that honesty is in abundance. Beyond business goals, we also set personal goals. For example, I committed to running a 5k, something I might have dismissed as too time-consuming. The group held me accountable, ensuring I stayed on track and achieved this goal. Their support has been instrumental in pushing me to succeed in areas I might have otherwise overlooked.”

What advice would you give others who are considering this journey?

“I understand the initial reservations about time commitment that others considering this journey with Jo may have. I wondered how I could fit in 12 full days a year plus additional one-on-one coaching sessions. However, this commitment has made me more adept at organising my time and structuring my approach. This process has allowed me to build a more robust senior team and hand over responsibilities that I previously managed alone. The mindset and approach developed through this group are invaluable, and I wholeheartedly encourage anyone interested to not be deterred by time concerns. This structure enables growth for both you and your business.”

A Fortuitous Journey

“I didn’t plan to join a peer support group – the timing was fortuitous. While some people join with specific goals, my journey was more organic. There isn’t a clear line in the sand marking my goals; instead, I’m continuously stimulated by the content and camaraderie. This group has become more than just a professional support network – it’s become a source of lifelong friendships. We genuinely enjoy our time together, often extending our meetings to spend more time connecting personally.”

“Our group is special because of the growth mindset and vulnerability of its members. We’re surrounded by individuals who are eager to learn, open to new ideas, and willing to be vulnerable. This openness has led to significant personal and professional growth. Humility and generosity are abundant in our group, fostering an environment where everyone is eager to give and grow together.”

“To sum it up, joining Jo’s peer-to-peer coaching group has been a transformative experience for me, providing invaluable professional insights, personal growth, and meaningful connections. If you’re considering this journey, embrace it fully – the benefits extend far beyond what you might expect.”

To find out more about how you can become involved in a peer-to-peer leadership group and benefit both personally and professionally from coaching, arrange a call with Jo Macsween today.

https://www.jomacsween.com/peer-to-peer-leadership-coaching/