This week I sat down with three high school seniors — including my daughter — who are co-chairing a major fashion show fundraiser at their school. My goal was to understand how they were thinking about/embodying leadership. 

I expected them to show up enthusiastically and willing to share their thoughts and ideas.

What I didn’t expect was a masterclass in leadership.

When I asked them what makes a great leader, they didn’t say confidence. They didn’t say authority. They didn’t say being the smartest person in the room.

They said:

listening well

letting others shine

admitting when you don’t know

working collaboratively

choosing courage even when you’re afraid

How many of us struggle as GROWN UPS to lead this way!? 

They also talked about stress and how leadership means learning to manage pressure without losing empathy.

I mean … can I get an AMEN!?

If this is how the next generation thinks about leadership, the future may be more emotionally intelligent, collaborative, and human than anything we’ve seen before.

Honestly it gave me hope, and in case you need a shot of hope this week, give this a listen.

This event supports tuition assistance and is an exceptionally great time. I’ll be there in full glam. ;)

Presentation High School Fashion Show

The event is supported by a group of local retailers and partners:

Jennifer Kroll

Remi B

Cabi

Macy’s

Kismet

Bella James

Winchester Western Ware

Cactus Lounge

Virgo Santa Cruz

(Grateful to see businesses investing in young leaders and their community.)