Becoming the Leader You Were Born to Be: A Journey of Courage, Resilience, and Purpose

By Alethia O’Hara-Stephenson

I remember the first time I truly questioned whether I belonged in the room. It was a boardroom filled with suits and polished shoes, voices that seemed louder than mine, and confidence that felt out of reach. I sat there, a young Black woman, clutching my notebook and hoping no one could see how nervous I was.

But somewhere deep inside, a quieter voice reminded me—you belong here.

I’m writing this for every young woman who’s ever felt like she had to prove herself twice as much to be seen. For every girl who’s doubted whether she’s smart enough, bold enough, or enough—I want you to know: you are enough.

I see you. And I was you.

Leading as a Woman of Color—Owning Your Power

Leadership is often portrayed as commanding a room or having all the answers, but for me, it’s always been about heart, courage, and resilience.

Growing up as an immigrant and a Black woman, I quickly learned that the world wouldn’t always make room for me—I had to create my own space. And I want to share how you can do the same.

1. Own Your Story The world needs your voice. Your experiences—the good, the bad, and the messy—are what make you uniquely qualified to lead.

Think about authors like Minda Harts (The Memo), who spoke boldly about the realities Black women face in corporate America. Or Brené Brown, who taught us that vulnerability is strength. Their stories broke barriers—and so can yours.

2. Lead Authentically You don’t have to fit anyone else’s mold. The world doesn’t need another copy; it needs you. Be the kind of leader who embraces your roots and values, who isn’t afraid to speak truth even when it’s uncomfortable.

Overcoming Self-Doubt—Lessons I Wish I’d Known Sooner

I wasn’t always this confident.

There were days when I doubted myself so much that I almost let opportunities slip away. Like the time I was asked to speak at an international conference. I was terrified. What if I froze? What if no one listened?

But I stepped into that fear—and it changed everything.

Here’s what I learned about self-doubt:

• It’s Normal. Everyone feels it—even the most confident leaders.
• You Can Reframe It. Treat fear as excitement. Fear means you’re stepping into growth.
• You Can Prepare for It. Journaling, rehearsing, and surrounding yourself with mentors can help you push past the nerves.

You don’t have to have it all figured out. You just have to take the first step.

Creating Space for Yourself—and Others

One of my biggest lessons has been this: you don’t rise alone.

I think about the mentors who opened doors for me, who saw something in me before I saw it in myself. And now, I’m committed to paying it forward.

For young women—especially women of color—it’s critical to have sponsors, mentors, and a community that lifts you up.

Advice for Finding Your Tribe:

• Network with Purpose. Don’t just collect contacts; build relationships.
• Seek Mentors and Sponsors. Mentors guide you, but sponsors advocate for you when you’re not in the room.
• Be a Resource for Others. As you rise, reach back and lift someone else.

Because leadership isn’t just about getting ahead—it’s about bringing others with you.

Building Resilience in a World That Tests You

Resilience isn’t about avoiding failure; it’s about learning to rise after falling.

In my role managing incident response and business continuity, I’ve seen firsthand how preparation and adaptability can turn chaos into opportunity. And in life, it’s no different.

When you’re tested—and you will be—lean into these truths:

• Preparation Builds Confidence. Know your stuff, and you’ll stand tall.
• Failure Is Part of Growth. Every setback is a lesson in disguise.
• Rest Is Revolutionary. Burnout doesn’t make you better. Rest does.

Resilience is built one challenge at a time—and every time you rise, you grow stronger.

Equity and Representation—Breaking Barriers Together

We can’t talk about leadership without talking about equity.

I’ve felt the sting of being overlooked, underestimated, and unheard. And it’s why I’m so committed to creating spaces where everyone feels seen, heard and valued.

For young women of color, the challenges can feel heavier—gender pay gaps, lack of representation, and stereotypes that shrink our worth.

But here’s the truth: you are worthy, you belong, and your voice matters.

We need more women and in particular women of color in leadership—not just for us, but for the girls coming after us. To make this a reality, it's imperative that we all play a role in creating space, dismantling barriers, and providing support to ensure that more women have the opportunity to lead and thrive in their careers.

Leaving a Legacy—Why This Matters

I often think about the young girl I used to be—dreaming big but afraid to take up space.

And now, as I write this, I think about the women and girls reading these words, wondering if they have what it takes to lead.

You do.

You can be the leader who changes the game. You can break barriers, build bridges, and leave a legacy of hope. And when you get there—because I know you will—don’t forget to turn around and pull someone else up, too.

Final Thoughts: This Is Your Moment

Leadership isn’t about having all the answers. It’s about showing up—imperfect, scared, and ready to grow.

I hope this inspires you to dream big, rise strong, and lead boldly.

And when you feel that little voice of doubt creeping in, remember what I learned:

You are already enough.

Now it’s time to show the world.

About the Author – Alethia O’Hara-Stephenson

Alethia O’Hara-Stephenson, CIP, MBA, is a respected leader, author, orator, TV show host, and community advocate with a passion for leadership development, diversity, equity, and inclusion. She is the Founder and President of the Dufferin County Canadian Black Association (DCCBA) and has earned multiple awards, including the Global Citizen Award, the Town of Shelburne Community Excellence Award, the 2020 MyFM Woman of Influence Honoree and a 2024 100 Accomplished Black Canadian Women Honoree.

As the Director of Continuity & Disaster Readiness at RBC, Alethia brings over a decade of expertise in risk management and business continuity, helping organizations transform challenges into opportunities. She also serves as a Trustee for UGDSB, championing inclusive policies and student success.

A dedicated storyteller, Alethia hosts Rogers TV’s “In Conversation with Alethia”, using media to inspire and connect communities.