Leaders in Partnership – Meet the Partner, Aurora Todisco
AURORA TODISCO, LOCAL VOICE IN THE COMMUNITY – FINANCE, HR AND GOVERNANCE DEVELOPMENT LEAD:
Why did you engage with ELBA’s Leaders in Partnership programme?
To strengthen my leadership skills and find practical, structured tools I could use in my Patient and Public Involvement and Engagement (PPIE) work. I was particularly interested in how leadership models could support more consistent and values-led engagement across health and social care systems.
What has been your biggest learning from the experience so far?
The power of reflective tools like the Leadership Competency Wheel. It’s helped me to think more intentionally about how I lead, communicate and support others — not just in my personal development, but in how I help teams embed meaningful, sustainable involvement practices.
Has anything surprised you along the way?
Yes — the versatility of the tools. I originally thought the Competency Wheel would be mostly for personal use, but I’ve been surprised by how effectively it can guide team development and strategic thinking. It’s adaptable across different contexts, and it really supports a culture shift towards more thoughtful and structured engagement.
Have there been any specific outcomes that have been achieved as a result of the partnership?
Absolutely! I’ve been able to support organisations to improve their planning, communication and decision-making processes around PPIE. The programme has also enhanced my confidence and presence in advisory roles, allowing me to better influence culture and challenge assumptions in a constructive way.
What would be your top piece of advice for someone considering taking part in the programme?
Be open to applying what you learn in unexpected ways. The tools may start as personal development aids, but they can have a wide-reaching impact when used to shape how teams engage and lead. It’s a great opportunity to grow your influence while staying grounded in values like trust, inclusion and continuous learning.
