21st Century Leaders provided an eye-opening perspective through the networking, panel sessions, speaking engagements, etc. I learned so much and really got a better understanding of what my future could look like. And as plus, I met many likeminded individuals that have become friends/connections for life.
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21CL taught me the importance of networking, building connections, and being confident in myself. Developing those skills has helped me to become a communications professional for local municipalities where I am responsible for keeping thousands of residents informed, educated, and engaged. In times of crisis, 21CL has prepared me to become a fearless leader in rolling out a communications plan and protocol for my staff that focuses on keeping the community safe and informed in a timely manner
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The program exposed me to a variety of unique leadership styles and introduced me to many inspiring individuals. It played a pivotal role in allowing me to not only develop the leaders around me but also the leader within me!
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I participated in 21st Century Leaders programs that prepared me and gave me social and professional skills needed to be successful in any room. Some of those takeaways include how to dress for success, how to interview, and even proper etiquette for professional events. The leadership skills I learned have stayed with me up to now, and I have been able to influence others along the way.
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21CL helped me understand the connection between effective communication and effective leadership. A leader’s vision is only as effective as his/her ability to express it. I’ve always cared immensely about language (both written and spoken). 21CL gave me frameworks (i.e., the elevator pitch, the cold call, extemporizing, etc.) that helped me channel my sometimes-scattered thoughts into a coherent vision. Notably, my experiences with 21CL fortified my confidence as a public speaker and encouraged me to raise my hand eagerly for public speaking opportunities throughout my 20’s.
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21CL took a chance on me when I first came to the US. I am an example of what investing in your community looks like: a former Iraqi refugee who fled the war has made it to college, and now medical school. Working hard alone would not have helped me come this far. I was lucky, but I have since learned the subtle art of getting lucky.
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The opportunity to come back and work as a Resident Advisor during those summers allowed me to revive my 21CL culture and enhance long lasting relationships with fellow 21CL alumni. Working during those summers also opened my eyes to career opportunities and experiences that helped to shape my career, sharpening my leadership skills.
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My favorite thing about 21CL is the opportunity their programs create for the young students to learn, see and experience situations in the industry they want to be in. The experience of meeting Coca-Cola business executives for a student who wants to study business is very empowering! Seeing the NBA on TNT set and getting to walk on set for a student who wants to be a broadcaster or cinematographer is an unbelievable experience.
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My advice to young leaders today: Every one of you will go on your own journey. Find beauty in the journey itself and be kind to yourself along the way. Visualize your success. Be bold and curious. Blow up the system if that’s what it takes!
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People say, “Your Network is your Net Worth,” or “Life Moves at The Speed of Relationships” and it couldn’t be more true. I thank 21CL for that and lifelong friendships.
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