Throughout Laidlaw, my perception of what it means to be a leader has certainly shifted. When I used to think about leadership, I had quite a particular conception of what it meant to be a 'leader'; I felt that it was defined by more rigid character traits than I do now. Throughout the Laidlaw program, I have constantly re-evaluated what it really means to be a 'leader', understanding that it is much more than simply taking up a formal position of perceived 'authority'.  Rather, leadership increasingly appeared to also be a bottom-up approach, which involved bringing people into the fold and creating a space within which all are able to flourish and be at their best. 

The Laidlaw Program not only taught me leadership thorough providing a space and numerous opportunities to grow and develop, but also taught me leadership through learning from their example. The values they embodied within the program, and the caring, sensitive, and adaptable approach which they took to ensure that all were able to get the most out of their leadership-in-action experience reflected how I hope to have developed throughout the program. 

I believe that one of the best ways to grow and develop as a person, and as a leader, is to put yourself in new situations, and try to challenge yourself to do and achieve things you previously would never considered. Laidlaw truly gave me this experience. Travelling to another country (Switzerland) where I had never been to and had few connections was certainly daunting, and I was working in an area which whilst I was certainly very interested in, I had little experience of. Yet, whilst working at the CyberPeace Institute as my Laidlaw 'Leadership in Action' Program, I became incredibly passionate and engaged in this topic. Writing op-eds on quantum computing and AI governance has led me to pursue the field further, and upon graduating next year, I will be working in the AI governance space. 

Similarly, carrying out my research project with the most fantastic team, focusing on 'Localized Communitarian Support Networks for Religious Minority Refugees' both helped create really strong friendships, and taught me valuable research design skills, whilst allowing me to learn more Coptic priests across Europe. Whilst carrying out interviews, I was struck by how truly kind and generous they were, even supplying us with snacks and breakfast on occasion! The importance of kindness was once again shown, and I felt inspired learning from their example, despite us coming from completely different backgrounds, languages, and cultures. The ability to travel and explore new areas and the kindness felt in each location from different individuals within the Church was incredibly touching. 

This program has certainly helped me develop as a person, and it has also helped to shape my career prospects. As a result of this program, I plan to work in the field of AI Governance, ensuring that we will in a world that is more equitable and better for all people. The program gave me invaluable contacts and experience in this area, who I continue to be in touch with and learn from. I hope that in the future will continue to cultivate an inclusive, empathetic, and adaptive leadership style. Through the diverse experiences and challenges I've faced, I've developed a more nuanced understanding of global issues and the interconnectedness of our world. This heightened awareness has fueled my commitment to addressing complex problems, particularly in the realm of AI governance. The Laidlaw program has not only equipped me with practical skills and knowledge therefore, but has also supported my ability to think critically, act ethically, and lead with empathy. As I move forward in my career and life, I hope to carry with me the ethos of the Laidlaw program – a commitment to lifelong learning, ethical leadership, and making a meaningful difference in the world. 

I am incredibly grateful to all the countless people I have met and worked with thanks to the Laidlaw Program, and creating so many amazing connections has really been a highlight for me. I wanted to say a special thank you to everyone in the LSE Laidlaw Team. I know that many of these relationships created during the program will continue over the coming years, and will serve me well in the future! While the short-term benefits are tangible and immediate, it's the long-term transformation in my approach to leadership and my vision for making a positive impact that truly distinguishes the enduring value of the Laidlaw program.

 A really unexpected firework display in Budapest after one of our final LIA interviews!