Kathleen Schafer, Founding Principal

Kathleen created Leadership Connection in 1995 out of a desire to support individuals, groups and organizations to effectively create necessary change both within and outside the political system. Her goal is to provide guidance for those who wish to inspire transformative change in their lives, their organizations and their communities. Her work has blossomed from focus on the individual political leader to encompass the vast spectrum of individuals who wish to have a greater impact on our world.  Kathleen’s unique approach integrates a variety of disciplines and more than 20 years experience in political consulting, higher education, strategic communications, organizational development, team building, Ayurvedic practices and human potential. As Leadership Connection continues to grow, she is focused on speaking, curriculum development and coaching.  From university classrooms and corporate boardrooms to Capitol Hill and the radio airwaves, in the United States and internationally, she has literally helped thousands of people from many walks of life progress in their journey toward more effective leadership and the realization of their goals.

Chris W. Bell, Director of Interactive Learning and Coach

Chris is a communications specialist and leadership coach. He specializes in helping others create an authentic life through connecting their daily activities with their true passions. Having worked in both the private and public sectors, Chris is a techie with a passion for helping people use digital learning tools to  be more productive in their work and personal lives. Constantly looking for ways to use technology to reach others, Chris has taught several online classes for the George Washington University’s Graduate School of Political Management.  Chris’ work with Leadership Connection includes directing interactive learning and client coaching.

Ina Gjikondi, Director of Strategic Partnerships and Trainer

Ina Gjikondi is a lawyer, management consultant and leadership faciltator. Ina’s focus is on the power of partnership to create change with groups and organizations in the political system and with the teams that comprise those organizations.  She works in higher education with The George Washington University’s Center for Excellence in Public Leadership and is active in a variety of community organizations including the United Nations Association of Albania, the UN Association of the National Capital Area and the WIN Nonprofit Network. She is fluent in Albanian, English and Italian and has working knowledge of French.  Ina’s responsibilities at Leadership Connection include developing partnership with new clients and in teaching and facilitating in-classroom courses.

Karin Heinzl, Director Western Europe Division and Trainer
Karin Heinzl is based Berlin, Germany and is a media and communications consultant for political and non-political projects in Austria and Germany.  Karin is passionate about supporting leaders and leadership development in politics, business and advocacy organizations.  Karin has work with Burson-Marstellar’s and Oppenheimerfunds, and as an independent advisor for political commercials. She has facilitated several on-line courses at the George Washington University and is the author of George W. Bush and Tony Blair’s Leadership during the War in Iraq: A Comparison of the Politicians’ Effectiveness.  Karin’s portfolio at Leadership Connection is focused on offering services throughout Western Europe by combining LC’s unique approach with her keen understanding of the European political system.

Rana F. Sweis, Director Middle East Division and Coach
Rana is a freelance journalist and media relations coach. Her focus is on empowering women and leaders within the Middle East to create new systems to better meet the needs of all the region’s citizens. Rana has facilitated on-line courses in Egypt and Jordan and she is currently leading the group Women Leaders in Jordan who provide support and networking opportunities to women who are creating change in their communities. Her work has been published in the Jordan Times, The Weekly Star, International Herald Tribune, The Huffington Post and other media outlets. Rana’s work with Leadership Connection centers on building on its current teachings in the Middle East and expanding its resources to individuals and organizations eager for fresh approaches to the region’s challenges.