When I first arrived at Leadershape my definition of leadership was someone who leads a group of people to achieve a common goal. During the week we were at HigherGround I learned so much about myself and about what a true leader is and what it takes to be a great leader. Upon my completion of Leadershape I discovered a leader is what I previously thought and so much more. Over the course of 6 days I learned that there is no such thing as a natural born leader, anybody can become a leader as long as they are committed to their vision and lead with integrity all while building invaluable relationships.

Leadershape was probably one of the most insightful things I have ever committed myself to doing. I was challenged to break out of my shell, share my experiences, and dig deep within myself to determine my passions and how they can translate to my future by making an impact on others. One thing we were tasked with while at Leadershape was to create a vision for the future which was outlined and explained in greater detail in Tomorrow’s Headline poster and in the Breakthrough Blueprint. I was aware of my passion to travel and impact the lives of children, but I had difficulties conceptualizing it. I spoke with a few different cluster leaders about it until I was able to fully realize my vision. My vision for the future is to “Create a future that eliminates ignorance and prejudice amongst young students through cultural diversification summer camps that are continuous and educate children on the different cultures around them through education and the children in the programs sharing their own personal stories and traditions. The program will be for young students from many different cultural backgrounds and socioeconomic classes. Children that stick with the program through its entirety will be rewarded with a study abroad trip to see a few of the cultures they learn about first-hand. The one thing I loved about this activity is that we were able to receive peer feedback which was very helpful.

To achieve my vision I need to first educate myself on the different cultures of the world through travel and communication with the locals and through readings and other forms of research. I will also need to speak with other organizations with a similar vision to my own to get some input on how to get this program up and running and ensure its success. Lastly, I will need to raise awareness for the program to see who may be interested in helping with the education portion and to gain some insight on what area I should implement the summer camp program.  

I have a long way to go, but I definitely believe that my vision is possible. Leadershape was amazing and I was surrounded by an extraordinary, uplifting group of individuals who genuinely cared about one another and our visions. We were able to create a strong bond with one another in six short days. I would recommend Leadershape to everybody. It has had such a positive impact on me and I think everybody gained something from it.

P.S. the food was Great!