We invite you to join us on a heartfelt journey through the life and leadership of Echo Vanderwal, a visionary who has been shaping the future of healthcare in Eswatini for the past two decades.

Echo and Harry, her husband moved to Eswatini in 2004, driven by a passion to make a difference in the health sector they established the Luke Commission. Their journey was filled with challenges, but Echo's unwavering dedication and compassion turned obstacles into steppingstones. From the humble beginnings of a real estate development company, Echo used its profits to establish the Loop Commission, a non-profit organization committed to transforming healthcare in Eswatini.

In this episode, Echo opens about her unique approach to leadership and staff development. She emphasizes the importance of integrity, transparency, and accountability, weaving these values into the fabric of her organization. Echo's leadership style is deeply relational, focusing on building strong teams and creating a sense of belonging among her staff. Her compassionate care extends beyond professional development, addressing the emotional and personal growth of her team members.

Echo shares the triumphs and trials she faced, including battling corruption and advocating for accountability in the healthcare system. Her story is not just one of personal success, but of collective empowerment. Echo highlights the transformative journey of an employee who rose from being a gardener to the Director of Operations, showcasing the potential within every individual.

The episode delves into Echo's efforts to create a positive workplace culture, tackling issues head-on and fostering open communication. She reflects on cultural norms, sharing poignant stories that reveal the need for a supportive and inclusive environment. Echo's leadership is characterized by a balance of power, prioritizing the needs of the vulnerable and leveraging the strengths of the African collective approach.

Echo also discusses the innovative steps her organization has taken, from implementing digital systems to improve service access, to building a massive oxygen plant during the COVID-19 pandemic. Her dedication to quality care and teamwork has been instrumental in providing critical medical services in Eswatini.