The name of the event was "Leadership in the Non-Profit Sector". It was after work. Since the event title resonates well with my company (CAASCO), I was able to convince my bosses to expense the fees. It was only 35 bucks but the point was to make them aware of my aspirations and not my thriftiness (or may be both lol)
The event was held at MedCan facility at downtown. I had the pleasure to meet it's Executive Chair Mr. Shaun Francis who was also the guest speaker. It was a motivational and a thought provoking talk.
He grew up with a silver spoon in his mouth literally and yet he came across such humble, driven, focused and motivated individual. He had a life transforming experience in his 20s when he was the only Canadian to serve in an American army. He has followed the veterans life closely and experienced what it takes to serve your country inside and outside its borders. Post-military, he has worked in many Leadership roles in various companies. He has also done his MBA from Wharton while having a family with 2 kids with a job that required lot of travelling. Time-management - an important quality in a good leader.
Shaun talked about lessons learned from different experiences that transformed his life. In Military settings, Leadership is not a privilege but a huge responsibility and a slight negligence can cause someone's or even your own life. How Leadership varies from companies to companies. But the essence of leadership is showing care, humility and courage - only then you can get respect from your team.
Shaun shared another tidbit - Predecessor of leadership is keeping oneself healthy ! Eating healthy, doing exercise and 'being happy'. Most importantly, have a social purpose in life - a giveback to society, devoting one's time and energy to something you are passionate about. These strong feelings only arises when you go through a life transforming experience which Shaun did. We have all experienced life transforming 'moments' but it is the 'experience' that shapes your personality and builds the framework for you to execute your leadership.
After his talk I was not able to make my way to him as he was surrounded by other alumnis. Nevertheless, I cherished his talk and decided to pen it down lest I forget.
