Being a Laidlaw Scholar has been an incredible journey of new encounters and self-discovery. As I reach the end of my time with the organisation, I find myself reflecting on the lessons in leadership we were taught, particularly the evolution from self-awareness and personal growth, to building meaningful relationships that enable fruitful leadership. 

It feels natural to begin this reflection by acknowledging the example of the leaders I had the privilege to meet during the programme. In particular, Matt, my supervisor during my research project, and Hugo, my colleague at the Portland Trust during my Leadership-in-Action, left a lasting impression on me.

Matt was a true inspiration in the way he conducted himself in the research environment. As my first introduction to the world of academia, he helped me appreciate the rigor and perseverance required of scientists: their attention to detail, their courage to start over when results are not promising, and their drive to contribute original work to the research community. Beyond his professionalism, I was deeply struck by his kindness and patience in explaining complex concepts. He was never intimidated by the knowledge gap between us. His generosity as a leader and his integrity in both values and output made me believe that the academic community can truly be a place of collaboration. 

Hugo taught me that true fulfilment comes from pursuing a higher calling. He made a conscious choice to apply his skillset from his previous consulting jobs to a non-profit organisation, motivated by the belief that there is great value in tackling the complex, political, and deeply human challenges faced in regions such as the Middle East. His moral clarity translated into his daily conduct: always the first to arrive, the last to leave the office, and always working alongside me as an equal. Through him, I learned that ambition and purpose do not have to be mutually exclusive, that one can strive for excellence while also serving a greater good.

These mentors, among many others, have profoundly shaped my character and beliefs over the past two years. Their example taught me the importance of holding myself accountable every day,

not in a self-critical or punitive way, but as a commitment to maintaining high standards in even the smallest tasks. This discipline is not only moral but deeply gratifying; it builds the confidence needed to lead others, knowing that one’s own dedication may inspire similar diligence in them.

I look forward to sharpening this skill every day, as it applies to every aspect of my life—academic, personal, and professional. The willingness to pay attention to small details and working from the bottom up are, I now realise, the surest ways to fulfil a higher calling.