Irene Fernando
Co-Executive Director at Students Today Leaders Forever
What does Leadership mean to you?
Leadership is a way of life! I believe leadership shows in the acts and decisions you make when no one is watching and no one is holding you accountable. For me, leading means being the best version of myself as often as possible, and sharing that with the world as much as possible.
What is one characteristic that you believe every leader should possess?
Excitement to contribute to the world and others.
Tell us about your own leadership journey. What are you most proud of?
My leadership journey is ongoing. I am most proud of my relationships - with family, friends, and changemakers. Life is incredible thanks to the wonderful people I get to hang out with.
Knowing what you know now, would you have done anything different in getting to where you are now?
I would be more confident, sooner. I would speak up, louder. I would see the best in people (and tell them), more frequently.
What inspires you?
When people do things that scare them / make them nervous. It is moving to see people go out on a limb and do something out of their comfort zones.
What are the biggest challenges facing young girls today?
Societal pressures and expectations of what we are "supposed" to do, how we are "supposed" to behave, what we are "supposed" to achieve, and how we are "supposed" to look.
What advice would you give to yourself as a young girl?
Work every single day to love yourself. Love yourself more today than yesterday. Be proud of who you are and who you are not. Take all your weird things and call it your "charm" and be happy to share it with the world. The more you love yourself, the more you will be able to contribute to the world and the more fun life will be!
Thanks, Irene!
If you or someone you know would like to be featured as a part of our Leadership Profile series, please contact us at Alexandra@centerforgirlsleadership.org.
