In my initial application to the Laidlaw Scholars Programme, I stated that leadership requires a set of skills to direct a team towards an end goal with maximum efficiency. Through what I have learnt during the programme, I do not disagree with this statement, however, I have come to realise that leadership is not about one person in charge and everyone else following their commands. That it is much more collaborative and a dialogue between all members, as this creates a better team in all aspects. Along with this, I have learnt the importance of collaboration in leadership. I initially believed that leaders single-handedly make decisions for their team but through gaining experience as a leader myself, I have learnt that although the final decision is down to a leader, the whole team plays a bigger role in this. 

For me, good leadership is learnt through experience. Although some people are naturally better disposed to being leaders, this does not mean that we can’t all be great leaders. This is something I also stated in my initial application which I still stand by. I have learnt this to be true, which I have seen in myself, as I have developed the skills through this programme to become a better leader.

My journey as a leader has been significantly shaped through my experiences as a Laidlaw Scholar. Through working at the WONDER Foundation during my LiA project, a charity that empowers women, girls, and their communities through access to education, I really developed my leadership skills. My ability to communicate effectively with a team and adapt to the ever-changing environment were some of the main take aways from my LiA. Both of which have helped me develop as a leader, and gain confidence in my skills.

Taking part in a group research project further refined my leadership skills. Collaborating with a varied group, all possessing different strengths and perspectives, I embraced the challenge, and as a team we ensured that every voice was heard, and contributions of all members were valued. Delegating tasks based on team members' expertise fostered an environment where everyone was working to their strengths.

The challenges that came with the research process, in both my LiA and research project, provided me with an opportunity to improve my resilience and problem-solving skills. Navigating setbacks and adapting strategies taught me the importance of flexibility and perseverance.

Both experiences highlighted the significance of effective communication in leadership. Whether conveying the mission of the charity to stakeholders or ensuring seamless collaboration within the research group, articulating ideas and perspective was a very important aspect of both.

Looking to the future, this programme will help me due to the skills I have learnt and improved, along with the experiences it has provided me with. My time at the WONDER Foundation honed my understanding of the real-world implications of research, emphasising the importance of empathy and adaptability. These qualities are invaluable, as they will help guide my future interactions in professional settings, enabling me to approach challenges with a heightened sensitivity to the needs of others.

Through participating in the group research project, the experience developed my appreciation for the power of teamwork and instilled in me the importance of creating an environment where every team member feels empowered and valued. These collaborative skills are transferable to the professional context, pathing the way for successful communication with future teams.

In summary, the lessons learned, and skills acquired through these research experiences have not only enriched my present but have provided me with a solid foundation for future success, instilling in me a confidence to navigate the complexities of my career path with resilience, empathy, and effective communication.