Breaking Barriers in Leadership: Coaching as Marronage

Guess who I had the absolute pleasure of meeting last week? ?

I had the honor of presenting The Audacity of Leadership to Mastermind, a powerhouse group of top-level industry leaders. These are the high-flyers ??, the decision-makers ??, the people who keep things moving at an extraordinary pace.

But even at the top, I’ve noticed something: many leaders, especially racially minoritised leaders, feel the weight of disconnection. The lean, ‘Cartesian’ way of knowing and doing may keep things efficient, but it often leaves leaders feeling… hollow. Unfulfilled.

This is where the concept of Marronage comes in. Inspired by the maroons, it’s about breaking free ???, liberating ourselves from limiting narratives, reclaiming our full selves, and creating spaces where we can thrive, not just survive.

We explored some key ideas:

• Reclaim your story: You don’t have to shrink yourself to fit into someone else’s mold. ??
• Build your networks: Leadership is not meant to be solitary. Your community is your strength. ????
• Empower others: Speak life, purpose, and possibility into those you lead. ????

One of the highlights of the event was meeting Faith Locken . ?? Her story of resilience and leadership is a powerful testament to Marronage in action. Faith reminded all of us that the journey to becoming your fullest self is not just possible, it’s necessary.

The response to the session? Incredible. ???? Leaders in the room didn’t just hear these ideas, they felt them. Many shared how this shifted their perspective, giving them the tools to break free from imposter syndrome and show up more fully in their work and lives.

Here’s the truth: imposter syndrome thrives in silence. When we gather like this, we create spaces for connection and courage. We remind ourselves, and each other, that we are enough. ??

How do you approach leadership in high-pressure environments? Let’s talk.

#Leadership #Coaching #Resilience