In every community there are individuals who rise above the rest, dedicating their time, energy and passion to make a positive difference. These leaders, whether they are entrepreneurs, community builders, activists, volunteers or public servants, deserve more than just a passing acknowledgment; they deserve to be celebrated and honoured for their invaluable contributions. Societies should be constantly looking for ways to recognize and celebrate their leaders as doing so not only fosters a culture of appreciation, but it inspires and can define a community.
On June 12 we will be presenting the Junior Achievement Business Hall of Fame induction ceremony and gala, so I felt compelled to address this issue specifically. Celebrating leaders is a way of expressing gratitude for their tireless commitment to our economy and our community. Honoring leadership is a powerful form of recognition and validation.
All too often, these efforts go unnoticed or underappreciated, overshadowed by more visible forms of success or achievement. Yet, their impact is profound and far-reaching, shaping the social, cultural and economic fabric of the community in meaningful ways. By publicly acknowledging their contributions and uplifting their success, communities not only boost the morale and motivation of these leaders but also inspire others to follow in their footsteps.
Recognition breeds inspiration, creating a ripple effect that encourages more individuals to step up, get involved, and make a difference in their own unique way – but on top of all that, here’s something else to consider. Having a wealth of great leaders is a brand asset.
I spent 15 years working for a Fortune 500 global leader in financial technology. Intuit, headquartered in Silicon Valley, operates within an incredibly competitive landscape for talent, with neighbours such as Google, Meta and Apple, among others. These global giants continually strive to outdo one another in creating exceptional work environments to attract top talent.
What sets Intuit apart from its competitors is its reputation in the valley as a premier developer of leaders. Intuit goes above and beyond to attract, nurture and cultivate exceptional leadership. They boast deep and sophisticated developmental programs, often bringing in global experts to impart cutting-edge and transformative leadership practices to their senior leadership cadre.
While I won’t delve into the intricacies of Intuit’s approach to leadership development, it’s worth noting that their efforts are widely recognized and Intuit leaders are highly sought after in the industry.
Now, envision if Edmonton could harness the potential of its own leaders as one of the city’s greatest brand assets.
History abounds with examples of visionary leaders who’ve left an indelible mark on society, catalyzing positive change and progress. From civil rights activists to scientific innovators, their legacies continue to inspire and shape the actions of future generations. By commemorating their achievements through celebrations, monuments, awards or simple expressions of gratitude, communities ensure that their contributions endure as guiding beacons for future endeavors. In doing so, we honour the past while charting a path forward, instilling pride, identity and purpose in successive generations.
Let’s cease being modest and reserved about our remarkable leaders. Let’s amplify their voices, and proudly share their stories wherever we go, showcasing how Edmontonians are making a difference in the world.