I began my Laidlaw journey uncertain. As I met the graduating cohort in the welcome event, it seemed to solidify my lack of confidence - they seemed far more impressive and sure of their work's impact and importance, most of all, I noticed their kinship with one another. 

I came into this programme having identified collaboration with others as one of my greatest weaknesses, not because I do not enjoy working with others but because my anxiety gets in the way. Yet, as I spoke to my peers, I not only realised how lucky I was to be amongst such excellence but also how welcomed and comfortable I felt in discussions and training sessions. My confidence grew throughout the next week as I got to know everyone better and realised how many of our values we had in common. 

Our debates seemed repetitive at times, but I realise now that this served a purpose: it reinforced good values above all. This was the glue that held us together. I felt myself letting go of judgement for others and for myself thus gaining the confidence I had seen in the cohort of 2024. It was never a purely internal struggle, I recognise now that their confidence grew out of the bonds formed within their cohort. The idea that those who I surround myself with can so profoundly impact my own sense of self is a message that will stay with me. 

I would like to thank Professor Matete Madiba especially for sharing her incredibly inspiring journey to becoming the Deputy Vice-Chancellor of the University of the Western Cape as it helped me realise the importance of not only helping but creating community.