The Future Makers: The Women Who Built the Leader I Am Today

Leadership isn’t born in a vacuum. It’s cultivated, shaped, and refined by those who come before us—the ones who take the time to teach, inspire, and empower. The women who have influenced my leadership journey are more than mentors; they are future makers. They are the architects of talent, the cultivators of resilience, and the champions of growth. Because of them, I am the leader I am today. Their lessons were not just career-defining; they were life-changing.

For every woman navigating her own career path—whether you’re building your leadership confidence, overcoming imposter syndrome, or finding your voice in a male-dominated industry—this is for you. Let’s celebrate the women who paved the way and recognize that we, too, are shaping the future for those who come next.

My Grandmother: Leadership Starts with People

My grandmother had an extraordinary ability to remember names, personal details, and life stories. She knew people—not just their roles, but their hopes, challenges, and what made them unique. She understood something so many overlook in leadership: people are the foundation of success.

She also stressed a truth that transformed the way I lead today: every person on the team matters, regardless of title. It’s easy to focus on executives, decision-makers, or top performers, but true leadership values everyone. The receptionist who greets with a warm smile, the janitor who ensures a clean, safe space, the customer service rep managing complaints with grace—they all contribute to success. She taught me that leadership isn’t about status; it’s about recognizing and valuing every contribution.

“I honor and value every person’s contributions, knowing that leadership starts with respect and connection.”

Patty: Servant Leadership in Action

Patty was my first example of servant leadership. She didn’t lead from an office; she was in the trenches with us, side by side, proving that leadership isn’t about delegating—it’s about showing up. Deadlines were tight, projects were overwhelming, but I never felt alone. Patty made sure we had what we needed, even if she had to create solutions herself.

She taught me that trust is built through action, not authority. A leader earns loyalty by being present, by listening, by fighting for their team’s success. Because of Patty, I lead with collaboration over control.

“I lead with action, not just words, showing up for my team with trust and integrity."

Zen: The Power of Empathy and Well-Being

For too long, workplaces glorified burnout as a badge of honor. Zen shattered that illusion for me. She led with radical empathy, proving that prioritizing well-being doesn’t mean sacrificing results—it enhances them.

She advocated fiercely for her team, making sure we weren’t just surviving, but thriving. She believed in us before we believed in ourselves, and through her leadership, we grew in ways we never thought possible. She also showed me something many leaders overlook: you are part of your team. You can’t pour into others if you’re running on empty. Self-care isn’t selfish; it’s leadership.

“I nurture both my team and myself, knowing that well-being fuels excellence.”

Katie: The Art of Intentional Communication

If there’s one thing that transformed my leadership approach, it’s consistent, meaningful communication. Katie believed in daily 1:1 check-ins—not as micromanagement, but as touchpoints for real connection.

She taught me that feedback shouldn’t be reserved for annual reviews. Real leadership means checking in often, catching problems before they spiral, and ensuring that team members feel seen and supported. Because of Katie, I learned that when you make communication a priority, you create trust, engagement, and a culture where people don’t just work—they belong.

“I engage in meaningful conversations, ensuring my team feels heard, valued, and supported.”

Rachael: Emotional Intelligence as a Leadership Superpower

Rachael carried immense responsibility, yet she never let the weight of leadership fall onto her team. She modeled emotional intelligence in a way that protected the energy of the people around her.

She taught me that leaders set the emotional tone. If we lead from a place of fear or reactivity, that’s what our teams absorb. But if we lead with clarity, emotional regulation, and strength, we create an environment where people can perform at their best. Rachael made leadership feel safe, stable, and inspiring.

“I set the emotional tone with composure and clarity, creating a safe space for my team to thrive.”

Heather: The Quiet Power of Thoughtful Leadership

Heather taught me one of the most underrated leadership lessons: you don’t have to be the loudest voice in the room to make an impact.

She was meticulous, methodical, and deeply thoughtful in her approach to compliance, deadlines, and policies. While others might have tried to overshadow her, she never wavered—she let her expertise speak for itself.

She proved that strength isn’t just in speaking; it’s in knowing. She showed me that introverted leaders bring something irreplaceable: depth, critical thinking, and an ability to connect through clarity and precision.

“I embrace the power of thoughtfulness, knowing that wisdom and precision speak louder than noise.”

Ashley: The Courage to Stand Alone

Ashley embodied what it means to be fearless in standing for what is right. She openly challenged sexual harassment, bias and discrimination—not for recognition, but because she refused to let injustice go unchecked.

She showed me that doing the right thing isn’t always comfortable. It can mean speaking up when others stay silent. It can mean being labeled as ‘intimidating’ simply because you don’t fit a mold others expect. But as Ashley always said, “I’m not intimidating; they’re intimidated.”

Her courage taught me that true leadership means choosing ethics over ease.

“I stand firm in my values, speaking truth with confidence, even when standing alone.”

Margaret: Boundaries, Dignity, and Self-Worth

Margaret had an extraordinary ability to handle the hardest conversations with grace. Whether it was a coaching discussion, a performance issue, or even a termination, she approached it with dignity and respect.

She also taught me something that changed my career forever: knowing when to walk away. She fiercely protected her boundaries, and because of that, she never let others define her worth. Margaret reminded me that advocating for yourself isn’t just about asking for more—it’s about knowing when to say, “I deserve better.”

“I protect my worth and well-being, knowing when to stand my ground and when to walk away.”

Linda: The Power of Humility and Growth

Linda was the ultimate example of staying humble, hungry, and smart. No matter how experienced she was, she never let ego stop her from learning from others.

She proved that real leadership isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about seeking knowledge, connecting with mentors, and making sure your team grows alongside you. She made sure we all had opportunities to upskill, connect with coaches, and develop expertise that would set us apart.

Because of her, I learned that leaders don’t hoard knowledge—they elevate others with it.

“I remain endlessly curious, always seeking to learn, grow, and lift others alongside me.”

Wendy: Owning Your Power Unapologetically

There are not enough words to describe how Wendy impacted my leadership journey. She was bold. She was fearless. She was unapologetically herself. And she never, ever shrank herself to fit into a world that wasn’t built for powerful women.

Wendy showed me that as a woman in leadership, I never have to dilute my intelligence, my assertiveness, or my ambition. She refused to beg for a seat at the table—she built her own damn table.

Through her, I learned the importance of boundaries, the power of advocating for myself, and the necessity of being unapologetic about my ambitions. She taught me that strength and kindness are not mutually exclusive. A woman can be firm, assertive, and direct without losing her heart or her integrity.

“I refuse to shrink—I claim my space, own my voice, and lead unapologetically.”

The Future Makers: We Are Next

The women who shaped me came from different walks of life, each bringing their own wisdom, strength, and fire. Some led with boldness, others with quiet resolve. Some lifted me with unwavering kindness, while others challenged me to stand taller. But they all had one thing in common—they never backed down. They were resilient, compassionate, and unshakable. Because of them, I am not just a better leader—I am a better human.

Now, it’s our turn. We are the future makers. The ones who ignite potential, break down barriers, and champion the voices that need to be heard. The ones who turn mentorship into a movement and leadership into a legacy. Let’s lead with heart, lift as we climb, and refuse to let the next generation walk this path alone. The future isn’t waiting—it’s being built by us, right now.

Happy International Women’s Day!