By Lois Otse Adams
You may see it as thought-provoking perspective about our present leadership, that having a position of leadership doesn’t necessarily mean someone was rightly raised or equipped to create positive change.
We need leaders who are not only in positions of power but also embody the values and principles that foster growth, equality, and justice. True change makers are those who lead by example by demonstrating integrity, empathy, and compassion. They empower others by creating opportunities for growth, education, and skill-building; foster inclusivity by promoting diversity, equity, and social justice; they drive innovation by encouraging creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving; they serve with humility by prioritizing the greater good over personal interests.
There is a dire need to raise change makers of tomorrow and this requires a multifaceted approach. To start, we need to empower young minds by providing them with the necessary tools and opportunities for growth. This includes education systems, community organizations, and families working together to foster critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills.
Mentorship and guidance are also crucial in helping young individuals develop their leadership potential. Experienced leaders can inspire and shape the minds of tomorrow’s change makers by sharing their knowledge, experiences, and insights.
In addition, to encourage innovation and entrepreneurship, this can help young people develop fresh perspectives and creative solutions to real-world problems. By providing access to resources, and entrepreneurship competitions, we can empower them to turn their ideas into reality.
To raise change makers, we must also focus on developing emotional intelligence. This involves teaching them to understand and regulate their emotions, empathize with others, and build stronger relationships. By doing so, we can help them become more effective leaders and problem solvers.
Furthermore, building resilience and adaptability is essential for young people to navigate the complexities of an ever-changing world, by teaching them to embrace failure, set realistic goals, and foster a growth mindset, they can empowered to overcome obstacles and achieve their aspirations.
Fostering collaboration skills is vital for young people to become effective team players and leaders. By encouraging teamwork, community involvement, and group projects, we can help them develop essential skills like communication, problem-solving, and conflict resolution.
By prioritizing these key areas, we can raise a new generation of change makers who are equipped to tackle the complex challenges of tomorrow.
Let’s strive to identify, support, and develop leaders who embody these qualities, and who can help create a brighter, more equitable future for all.
