1. What have you found most challenging as a leader?

As a leader, I have found that one of the most challenging aspects is navigating and managing change within an organization or team. Change can often bring uncertainty, resistance, and a need for adaptation. It requires careful planning, effective communication, and strong leadership to guide individuals through the process and ensure a smooth transition.

One of the primary challenges is addressing resistance to change. People naturally tend to resist unfamiliar situations, and as a leader, it is crucial to address their concerns, communicate the benefits of the change, and involve them in the decision-making process whenever possible. Overcoming resistance requires empathy, patience, and the ability to provide a clear vision of the desired future state. Another challenge is managing the diverse needs and expectations of team members.

Each individual has their own unique strengths, motivations, and ways of working. As a leader, it can be demanding to balance these individual differences while fostering collaboration, teamwork, and a shared sense of purpose. It requires understanding and adaptability to effectively support and engage each team member. Additionally, decision-making can be challenging, especially when faced with complex and high-stakes choices. Leaders often need to make tough decisions that may have far-reaching consequences.

Balancing the available information, considering various perspectives, and mitigating risks can be demanding. It requires a blend of analytical thinking, strategic foresight, and the ability to consult with trusted advisors. Lastly, maintaining open and transparent communication can be a continual challenge. Effective communication is essential for conveying goals, expectations, and changes, as well as for providing feedback and addressing concerns. However, ensuring that communication flows consistently and clearly throughout the organization or team can be demanding, particularly in larger or geographically dispersed settings. Overall, while leadership can be rewarding, it is not without its challenges.

Successfully navigating change, managing diverse individuals, making difficult decisions, and maintaining effective communication are among the most demanding aspects. However, these challenges also present opportunities for growth, learning, and building stronger and more resilient teams and organizations.

2. How did you become a leader? Can you please briefly tell the story?

I became a leader as an ambassador through a combination of passion, dedication, and involvement in my chosen field. It all started with my deep interest in promoting and representing a cause or organization that I felt strongly about. Whether it was a social cause, a community initiative, or an academic pursuit, I recognized the need to take an active role in advocating for and spreading awareness about it.

To begin my journey as an ambassador or as a leader, I sought out opportunities to engage with like-minded individuals and organizations. I actively participated in relevant events, conferences, and workshops to expand my knowledge and network. This allowed me to connect with people who shared my passion and were already actively involved in the cause or field I wanted to represent. As I deepened my understanding and involvement, I started taking on leadership responsibilities within the ambassador community or associations. This could include organizing events, leading workshops, coordinating initiatives, or representing the organization at conferences and meetings.

I consistently demonstrated my dedication, commitment, and ability to inspire others with my enthusiasm and knowledge. I also sought guidance from mentors and experienced ambassadors who provided valuable insights and supported my growth as a leader. Their guidance helped me refine my skills, develop my unique leadership style, and navigate challenges along the way. Through my efforts, I gained recognition and trust from both the organization I represented and the community and associations I served. This led to increased opportunities and responsibilities as a leader within the ambassador program. I continued to expand my impact by mentoring and guiding others, fostering collaboration, and spearheading innovative projects.

Throughout this journey, I remained committed to continuous learning and personal growth. I actively sought feedback, reflected on my experiences, and pursued opportunities to enhance my leadership skills. I stayed informed about the latest developments and trends in my field, which allowed me to bring fresh perspectives and ideas to the ambassador community. Ultimately, becoming a leader as an ambassador was a result of my passion, proactive involvement, commitment to learning, and the trust and support of the organization and community I represented. It was a journey of growth, self-discovery, and making a positive impact on the causes I cared deeply about.

3. How do you structure your work days from waking up to going to sleep?

As an Ambassadors, Pastor, and PhD student, structuring my work days efficiently and effectively is crucial. While individual schedules may vary based on personal preferences and specific responsibilities, here's a general outline of how I could structure my work days:

Morning Routine and Spiritual Practice:
Wake up at a consistent time that allows for adequate rest. Engage in a morning routine that includes activities like meditation, prayer, journaling, or exercise to center myself spiritually and mentally.

Pastoral Duties:
Begin the day by addressing any pastoral responsibilities, such as responding to emails, messages, or phone calls from congregants, and addressing any urgent pastoral needs. Plan and prepare for upcoming sermons, teachings, or pastoral counseling sessions. Conduct pastoral visits or meetings as necessary, providing support and guidance to individuals or groups within the congregation.

PhD Journey and CEO Responsibilities:
Allocate dedicated time for my academic pursuits, which may involve conducting research, reading scholarly literature, or writing and editing my thesis or research papers. Attend scheduled classes, seminars, or meetings with academic advisors or research group. Engage in academic discussions, collaborate with peers, and participate in conferences or workshops relevant to my research area(AI & Mathematic).

Ambassador Activities:
Dedicate time to fulfill the ambassadorial duties, such as promoting and representing the cause or organization I am affiliated with(RCCG). Participate in meetings or conferences related to my ambassador role, either in person or virtually. Collaborate with other ambassadors on projects, initiatives, or awareness campaigns. Allocate time for networking, outreach, and engaging with the community to advocate for the cause I represent.

Time for Personal Well-being:
Ensure I set aside time for self-care and personal well-being, such as taking breaks, engaging in hobbies, spending time with loved ones, or pursuing activities that bring joy and relaxation. Prioritize healthy meals, regular exercise, and sufficient rest to maintain physical and mental well-being.

Evening Routine:
Wind down my day by reviewing and organizing my tasks for the next day. Reflect on the day's accomplishments and express gratitude for the opportunities and experiences. Engage in a relaxing evening routine that may include reading, unwinding activities, or spending quality time with loved ones. Prepare for a restful night's sleep by establishing a bedtime routine that promotes relaxation and good sleep hygiene.

4. What's a recent leadership lesson you've learned for the first time or been reminded of?

A recent leadership lesson that I have learned or been reminded of is the significance of fostering a culture of continuous learning and adaptability and the power of effective delegation.

In today's fast-paced and ever-changing world, effective leadership demands the ability to navigate through uncertainty and embrace new ideas, technologies, and approaches. The lesson I have embraced is that leaders must prioritize their own personal growth and encourage a learning mindset within their teams and organizations. To stay ahead of the curve, leaders must actively seek out new knowledge, explore diverse perspectives, and invest in their own professional development.

This can include attending industry conferences, enrolling in leadership programs, reading relevant literature, or engaging in networking opportunities. By continuously expanding their knowledge base, leaders can better understand emerging trends, anticipate challenges, and make informed decisions. This can be done by the power of effective delegation. Delegation is the act of entrusting tasks and responsibilities to others, empowering them to contribute their skills and expertise to achieve common goals.

While leaders often possess a strong sense of responsibility and a desire to be involved in every aspect of their work, effective delegation can lead to better outcomes and increased productivity. Equally important is fostering a culture of learning within the team. This involves encouraging open dialogue, welcoming innovative ideas, and providing opportunities for skill development and growth. Leaders can facilitate learning through mentorship programs, workshops, and collaborative projects that promote knowledge-sharing and cross-functional collaboration. Furthermore, adaptability is a critical trait for effective leadership.

The ability to pivot, embrace change, and lead through uncertainty is essential in today's dynamic and unpredictable world. Leaders must encourage flexibility, resilience, and a willingness to embrace new strategies or approaches when necessary. This requires fostering a culture that embraces experimentation, encourages risk-taking, and rewards adaptability. By embodying a commitment to continuous learning and adaptability, leaders can inspire their teams to embrace change, think creatively, and adapt to new challenges.

This leadership lesson reminds me of the importance of staying agile, seeking knowledge, and creating a culture of growth and innovation within my sphere of influence as an Ambassadors or leader. However, delegation also requires clear communication and proper follow-up. Leaders must provide clear instructions, set expectations, and establish a feedback mechanism to ensure that delegated tasks are executed effectively.
Regular check-ins and feedback sessions are crucial to monitor progress, address challenges, and provide guidance when needed. By embracing effective delegation, leaders can create a culture of trust, collaboration, and shared responsibility within their teams. It enables individuals to develop new skills, gain confidence, and contribute to the overall success of the organization or project. Ultimately, this leadership lesson reminds me of the importance of leveraging the collective talents of my team and empowering them to achieve their full potential.

5. What's one book that has had a profound impact on your leadership so far? Can you please briefly tell the story of how that book impacted your leadership?

As a leader, I have been influenced by various books that have shaped my leadership journey. Two significant books that have had a profound impact on my leadership are "Leaders Eat Last" by Simon Sinek and the book "Determination: A Path to Glory" by Dr. Wole (PhD).

In "Leaders Eat Last," Simon Sinek emphasizes the importance of creating a culture of trust, collaboration, and selfless service within organizations. This book highlights the idea that great leaders prioritize the well-being of their team members and place their needs above their own. It encourages leaders to foster a safe and supportive environment where individuals feel valued, empowered, and inspired to give their best. By internalizing the principles of "Leaders Eat Last," leaders can transform their approach to leadership and create a positive impact on the lives of those they lead.

For leaders, "Leaders Eat Last" serves as a reminder of the responsibility to create a culture that promotes trust, loyalty, and camaraderie. It emphasizes the power of empathy, clear communication, and genuine care for the people being led. This book often impacts leaders by shifting their perspective on leadership from a position of authority to one of service. It encourages leaders to lead with integrity, compassion, and a focus on the collective success of the team. The insights and principles shared in "Leaders Eat Last" have the potential to shape a leader's approach to leadership, influence their decision-making, and inspire them to create a positive impact on the lives of those they lead. Ultimately, this book encourages leaders to be selfless, purpose-driven, and empathetic, which can transform their leadership style and enhance their ability to inspire and motivate others.

On the other hand, the book "Determination: A Path to Glory" by Dr. Wole (PhD) focuses on the significance of determination in achieving remarkable success and personal fulfillment. This book explores the qualities and mindset required for individuals to persevere through challenges, overcome obstacles, and stay motivated on their journey towards glory. It likely provides practical strategies, inspirational stories, and insights to guide readers on their own path towards personal and professional success. "Determination: A Path to Glory" reminds leaders of the power of determination and the importance of resilience, persistence, and a strong sense of purpose in attaining their goals.

Combining the lessons from both books, my leadership journey as an Ambassadors, pastor, and PhD Journey and CEO has been enriched. I have learned the value of creating a culture of trust, collaboration, and selfless service, as well as the significance of determination, resilience, and a strong sense of purpose. These lessons have shaped my understanding of effective leadership and inspire me to prioritize the well-being of my team members, foster a learning mindset, and lead with determination on the path to glory.

6. If you could only give one piece of advice to a young leader, what would you say to them?

If I could only give one piece of advice to a young leader, it would be to never stop learning and growing. Leadership is a continuous journey of self-discovery and development.

Embrace a mindset of curiosity and a thirst for knowledge. Seek out opportunities to learn from mentors, books, courses, and real-life experiences. Be open to feedback and actively seek it from those around you. Reflect on your successes and failures to extract valuable lessons that can shape your growth as a leader.

Additionally, stay adaptable and open-minded. The world is constantly changing, and effective leaders need to be agile and able to navigate through uncertainty. Embrace new ideas, technologies, and approaches, and encourage your team to do the same. Foster a culture of innovation and collaboration that promotes creative thinking and continuous improvement.

Remember that leadership is not about having all the answers, but about empowering others and fostering their growth. Cultivate strong relationships built on trust, respect, and effective communication. Listen actively to the ideas and concerns of your team members, and provide support and guidance when needed.

Above all, lead with integrity and authenticity. Be true to your values and principles, and let them guide your actions. Demonstrate empathy, compassion, and humility in your interactions, and lead by example. Your actions will speak louder than words and will inspire others to follow your lead.

By embracing a lifelong commitment to learning, adaptability, relationship-building, and authenticity, you will lay a solid foundation for your leadership journey. Never underestimate the power of continuous growth and personal development as you strive to make a positive impact in the lives of others and the organizations you lead.

7. What is one meaningful story that comes to mind from your time as a leader, so far?

Once upon a time in a bustling office, I had a mischievous sense of humor and believed that humor could be a powerful tool for team bonding and boosting morale.

One day, I decided to organize a team-building activity with a twist. So I've planned a "Reverse Roles Day" where everyone would switch their roles and responsibilities for a day. The office was abuzz with excitement and anticipation.

When the day arrived, chaos ensued as the team members hilariously attempted to carry out tasks they were unfamiliar with. The accountant became the receptionist and struggled to handle phone calls, while the IT specialist took on the role of the salesperson and had amusing encounters with confused customers.

Despite the comical mix-ups, I noticed something remarkable happening. The team members were laughing, collaborating, and offering each other help and guidance. They were gaining a newfound appreciation for the challenges and skills required in different roles.

As the day progressed, I called for a meeting to reflect on the experience. The team members shared their funny stories and acknowledged the importance of empathy and understanding in their daily interactions. They realized that every role within the organization was essential and required unique skills and expertise.

Through the laughter and light-heartedness of the "Reverse Roles Day," I've fostered a sense of camaraderie, broke down hierarchies, and encouraged empathy among the team members. They learned that a little humor and the ability to laugh at oneself could create a positive work environment and enhance teamwork.

This story teaches us several valuable leadership lessons. It reminds us of the power of humor in bringing people together, breaking down barriers, and fostering a positive team culture. It highlights the importance of empathy and understanding between team members, regardless of their roles or positions. And it emphasizes the value of creating opportunities for lightheartedness and fun in the workplace, as it can enhance collaboration, boost morale, and create lasting memories.

Remember, leadership doesn't always have to be serious and solemn. Sometimes, a touch of humor can go a long way in building stronger teams and creating a more enjoyable work environment.