This log reflects my week 5 Leadership in Action experience, which started on June 16.

What went well?
The week of the delegation visit! Meetings with Phulki, YY Ventures, Daffodil, Standard Chartered, Sunbeams, Envolead, Legal Circle, IUB, BRAC Bank, and more. It was like speed dating with Dhaka’s development sector, and many brilliant minds. I loved watching ideas spark—whether it was micro-credentials at BRACU or teacher training at Sunbeams. We had 12 meeting over 2 days - 8 AM to 5 PM on June 17 and 9 AM to 8 PM on June 18. Mr. Advani had to leave early morning of June 19, but Mr. Bokhari and Mr. Kenny stayed to have a few more meetings on June 19.

What could have been done differently?
I should have slept more. Running on adrenaline is great until you’re in your fifth meeting of the day. When I arrived at the hotel in the morning of June 18, I was sleep-deprived, and by noon, I caught a headache. I also could’ve carried snacks (note to self: meetings don’t always end with samosas) and juice to add more fuel to the body to keep going. I was actually too shy to eat in a few meetings, which I had to regret later.

What did I learn about myself when working with others?
I learned that I’m surprisingly good at note-taking under pressure. While others spoke, I scribbled like a court stenographer. It gave me a sense of control amidst the whirlwind.

What did I learn about leadership?
Leadership is about presence. People remember warmth, humor, and eye contact more than slide decks. Being human matters. Kind gestures while being confident help win the room.

What do I want to develop or focus on next?
Next time, I want to prepare sharper follow-up questions to go beyond polite nodding. Also, I will definitely ask for more snacks. YY Ventures had the best chia pudding in the town and Daffodil had the best mutton I have had in Dhaka in summer 2025 so far.