I recently had the honor of serving as a panelist and event co-chair with my husband Rutherford for Usher’s New Look Foundation’s World Leadership Conference. This conference provides youth leaders with an opportunity to develop and display skills as leaders and work with their peers from around the world to develop global solutions to local problems.
First, I served as a panelist for the Women’s Leadership Panel. It was such a privilege to be asked to speak among these amazing and influential women. I really enjoy being asked to participate in efforts to inspire our youth, but it is also a valuable learning experience for me. We discussed the changing face of leadership and what it takes to accomplish one’s goals, such as developing public speaking skills, having passion for one’s cause and having a continuous commitment to learning.
Next, I participated in the The Eco Ryders panel, which also included Leilani Munter and Ovie Mughelli. Eco Ryders is a project started by Victor, 15, and Kendrick, 14, to engage and educate their peers in the South Bronx about environmental justice issues. On this panel, I shared the lessons I learned from my father about using your passion to get results for your cause. For some, determining your passion is the difficult part, for others, its channeling their passion into positive results. Along with my inspirational friends, Leilani and Ovie, we encouraged the students to find their passion in life and go for it. Be willing to work hard and be determined.
One of the best things we can do to share our passion is to work on our communication skills. I encouraged the attending youth to practice public speaking – my dad always told me that his debate class really helped him sharpen his speaking skills. Finally, I encouraged them to be kind and treat everyone with respect. I hope the students at the World Leadership Conference will take these important lessons to heart and utilize them to make a positive impact in their communities.
Finally, on Friday evening, my father was honored with the Service Legacy Award, which recognized his lifetime of leadership in philanthropy. It was so special to celebrate my dad’s accomplishments at this event with my husband Rutherford and our children.
Participating in this event was truly rewarding and I was inspired by the energy, passion and commitment shown by these young people. Learn more about Usher’s New Look Foundation and the conference here.
