Alumni {sequence}

The 20/20 Leadership Program challenge has been a transformative experience in my understanding of leadership, community, and personal growth. I have been forced to believe in myself and take a more confident, empathetic, and proactive stance. I think the most important lesson I have learned as a leader is empathy, collaboration, and positive action through others. In realizing this, I have been able to venture out of my shell into the world with purpose and authenticity.

Before joining the program, I used to be shy in taking new initiatives or bringing up my ideas in group settings, but with the 20/20 Leadership program, I had a safe environment to develop my skills. Team projects, public speaking practice, and problem-solving challenges helped me understand that leadership is about lifting up others rather than doing it alone.

Besides that, I have grown in becoming a critical thinker and having perseverance toward that goal. The program made it clear that at difficult times you must be there and seek out creative solutions. I have learned how to remain calm under pressure and face problems with a growth mindset. These skills increase my ability to lead and better prepare me for future challenges in life.

The lessons I learned through the 20/20 Leadership program will certainly help me in my approaches toward fields of leadership. As I go on through higher learning and beyond, I would use these tools to create an impact in my environment. I believe that it is best to become a leader who listens, relates, supports, and encourages a sense of belonging. Leading a team and volunteering in my community is the path ahead for me. While I’m leading my teammates at work or volunteering within my community, I would have an eye for building a relationship and fostering cooperation.

To me, “leaving a legacy” means having an impact that lingers on beyond your time in a position or situation. It’s something quite powerful and meaningful that positively touches others way after you’ve gone. A legacy doesn’t need to be great or monumental. A legacy enacts inspiration for someone else to believe in themselves or contribute to a certain cause that changes lives.

Alongside other free time, I teach younger kids the world of dance. I mentor and guide them to blossom into their most confident self both inside and outside of school. The fact that my efforts will help generations to come is what gives me a sense of purpose and fulfillment. Yet again, this was a strong reinforcement of the belief that leaving a legacy is about sowing seeds for growth. I wish to be continuously preserved in my legacy of kindness, perseverance, and being of service. Whether it is by mentoring younger kids, advocating for social change, maybe simply being someone that leads by example, I want my act to be inspiring and make others want to aspire more. The 20/20 Leadership program has been an invaluable experience that has shaped me into a more capable and compassionate leader.