The Silent Strength
In a world that often celebrates loud proclamations and grand gestures, there's a subtle yet deeply impactful power that often goes unnoticed. When I began my journey as an author-entrepreneur, contributing to one of my first anthologies, I explored the profound influence of "Showing Up." As a multifaceted leader operating in both the profit and nonprofit sectors, I've learned that the simple act of consistently being present can disrupt the status quo, that sparks meaningful change.
However, no matter how far we raise, we must always remain humble, recognizing that our success is not just a result of our own efforts but also the support and encouragement of others along the way. Embracing a servant’s heart is essential—leading with humility, compassion, and a commitment to serving others ensures that our impact is not only wide-reaching but also deeply rooted in purpose.
In the early days of my journey as a nonprofit founding CEO, there were moments when it seemed like my efforts were invisible. I was a woman determined to make a difference, yet it often felt like I was shouting into the void. But I persisted. I showed up at every meeting, every community event, every networking opportunity and always ready to serve. I wasn’t always the loudest voice in the room, but I was there, committed to my mission.
In the profit world, the challenges were different but equally demanding. The competition was fierce, and the stakes were high. Yet, the principles remained the same: show up, stay consistent, and let your work speak for itself. This dual existence—balancing the demands of the profit sector while nurturing the heart of a nonprofit leader—taught me resilience. It taught me that success doesn’t always come with immediate recognition but is built through unwavering dedication.
Let me also mention that as a woman, particularly in leadership, I know firsthand that the path is rarely straightforward. Society often places us in boxes, dictating how far we can go and how loudly we can speak. But by simply showing up and refusing to be sidelined, we disrupt these expectations. Throughout my journey, I’ve made it a point to challenge the norms—not through confrontation but through presence. My strong sense of faith has guided me to lead with both empathy and efficiency, to navigate the complexities of both profit and nonprofit worlds, and to empower others along the way.
And let me say this: the disruption isn’t always a grand act; sometimes, it’s as subtle as being the only woman at the table and holding your ground. It’s in proving that leadership isn’t about fitting a mold but about breaking it to create space for others. As Shirley Chisholm says: “if they don’t give you a seat at the table, bring a folding chair.” Every time we show up we are planting seeds of change, not just for yourself but for the individual who would follow. My faith has been the foundation that sustains this commitment, reminding me that each step I take is not just for my journey, but for the greater good of those who come after me.
Consequently, my passion for empowering women is deeply rooted in my belief in the power of presence. I’ve seen firsthand how women who consistently show up—despite the challenges, despite the doubts—carve out spaces for themselves where none existed before. It’s not just about being present; it’s about being intentional with that presence. It’s about using every opportunity to lift others, to mentor, to support, and to inspire.
As a multifaceted leader, I’ve made it my mission to create opportunities for others, particularly women, to rise. In the nonprofit sector, I focus on helping them find their voices and harness their power, guiding many to eventually become CEOs or Executive Directors. In the profit world, I advocate for equitable opportunities that ensure everyone has a fair chance to succeed. My goal has always been to pave the way for others. I've witnessed women who were once overlooked step into their power simply because they persisted, continued to show up, and refused to be ignored.
Therefore, the power of showing up cannot be overstated. It is the quiet force that drives change, that disrupts norms, and that empowers those who may not yet realize their potential. As a multifaceted leader in both the profit and nonprofit sectors, my story is a testament to the impact of persistence, presence, and purpose.
Our takeaways:
• Consistency: Consistency is the key to creating change: Simple act of consistently showing up, even when it feels like no one is noticing, can disrupt the status quo and spark meaningful change.
• Stay Humble and Lead with A Servant’s Heart: No matter how high you rise, remember that your success is not yours alone; it’s built on the support and encouragement of others. Always, lead with humility, compassion, and a commitment to serving others ensures that your impact is not only broad but also deeply rooted in purpose and integrity.
• Empowerment through Presence: As a leader, particularly as a woman in leadership, showing up with intention and purpose can challenges societal norms and create space for others.
For all who are striving to make a difference, remember this: your presence matters. Keep showing up, keep pushing boundaries, and one day, you’ll find yourself in a position to not just lead but to inspire and empower others on a national scale. The power of showing up is real, and it’s yours to harness.
