Alumni Essay 37

During the last two years in Youth Lead KC, I stopped thinking of what a leader can be and actually becoming a leader who leads in a reality. I thought that being a leader is all about being confident and speaking in front of people when I first joined the program. Of course, those abilities are essential, but Youth Lead KC moved me towards a higher level of comprehension, which is service, responsibility, flexibility, and approaching people of all diversities.

The exposure was the most revealing experience of the program. Taking a tour in various colleges such as the University of Central Missouri enabled me to be on the ground of their campus in order to envision myself there rather than just dreaming about it. Those visits made my future seem real and prompted me to raise meaningful questions about grades, careers, majors and long-term ambitions. In addition, the visit to the Missouri State Capitol provided me with first-hand experience of the way politicians are leading. The experience of watching the decision-making and policy implementation showed that being a leader is not only about the power of leading but also about team work and accountability. These experiences broadened my outlook and informed me that an individual can be transformative within a larger space or organization.

Youth Lead KC also enhanced my skills in communicating at the business level. Meeting with university representatives and industry experts required practice and confidence. Initially, it was frightening to start conversations and ask questions even if they were considered dumb. As time went on, I became more open to initiating a conversation and telling my plans. I have learned that networking is not about making an impression but it is about developing genuine relationships. The ability to use this attitude allowed me to grow up in the working environment and become better in my own presentation.

Another aspect through which I developed was professionalism. The program focused on RSVPs, availability and punctuality. Reliability is what those expectations were showing me is the beginning of leadership. Being prompt and time-conscience at all times was a way of respecting the YLKC and my peers. Appearing on time and keeping promises establishes credibility. Such habits will continue to lead me during college and even my future career.

I learned the importance of collaboration through Youth Lead KC. Cooperation with the peers in different schools made me gain the ability to listen more. Being a leader is not about being in the limelight but making room so that others can get in. I also became more sensitive to the importance of different opinions and understood how to motivate the person who may be second guessing to speak out. This development has shaped me to be a leader who believes in inclusiveness and peer collaboration.

In the future, I will apply what I have learned by prioritizing difficult situations that can mentally and physically challenge me. I will take with me a sense of confidence, professionalism, and communicative skills that I had developed with Youth Lead KC, whether it is in the higher education, in business, or in community-related projects. My future goals are to work in leadership positions that will unite people through businesses, promote cooperation, and create a positive change in my future businesses. The program has prepared the foundation of purposeful, as well as ambitious leadership.

In my case, leaving a legacy would be making a ripple. It is about making a difference on other people and making them grow, get a chance and be upright. Legacy is not about awards but how people feel and what doors you open to them. Youth Lead KC has taught me that legacy begins with character and willful actions.