Episode 19: Leadership is more appealing when it doesn't feel like it's a performance, with Sarah Fortuna

Leadership Amplified by Dr Karen Morley

This was one of Sarah Fortuna’s reflections during our recent Leadership Amplified discussion. We’ve heard this before - Sarah’s early reflections on leading left her feeling that leadership wasn’t for her. Early in her career saw a lot of unhealthy practices, what she saw was unappealing, she couldn't see the kind of role models she wanted to emulate. Thankfully that changed. She worked with leaders who were challenging and amazing, and she understood how hard, and thoughtful, leadership is. ‘Leadership is a full body contact sport.’ Leadership most makes sense to Sarah when leaders care about the world, the community, and show responsibility to others. It’s not an individual pursuit. As part of the Atlantic Fellows for Social Impact program, she’s learned that there are other ways of leading. It’s possible to breathe in a space where there isn't just one way of doing things. Indigenous leadership is collective responsibility for the community, and a sense of who you are beyond the role - that appeals to her. ‘Go in with open mind, it's not all about you but finding your place in the team.’ She sees her future challenge as keeping the sense of openness, curiosity & spirit that she felt when younger. 👏