The Leadership Secret: Giving Back to Move Forward

Recently, I was asked why I invest time in volunteering during a panel on career growth. This made me reflect. Truth is, most of my defining moments haven’t come from boardrooms or corporate success but from the communities I’ve been a part of. As an immigrant, student, and professional, my journey has been shaped by the power of giving back, which has influenced my leadership style, sense of purpose, and commitment to paying it forward.

The Power of Giving Back: A Personal Journey

For context, I was born in Ukraine, and immigrated to the United States as a little girl before Ukraine gained its independence from the former Soviet Union. (Side note, although the aggressor is trying to undermine Ukrainian’s independence again, I have no doubt Ukraine will prevail).

My family’s journey as refugees let me witness firsthand what it meant to rely on the kindness of strangers and how it can change lives. I still remember waiting in line at the food banks and receiving my first Lego set through a charitable donation. This lived experience leaves me feeling forever grateful for the generosity of people we’ve never met, a feeling I’m able to honor by paying it forward.

Additionally, while my parents navigated challenges of being in a new country; working hard to gain financial stability…