For Colour, Transparency

The students we get to support are incredible. I am constantly being inspired by, learning from and growing because of their authentic engagement and contributions in our program days. Listening to participant responses, connections and reflections is one of the true pleasures of being a facilitator. Last week was no different as a Year 5 student, thinking outside the box, shared with the group such an important aspect of ‘being the change you wish to see in the world’.

“Honesty and transparency make you vulnerable. Be honest and transparent anyway.” – Mother Teresa

In creating similes and metaphors for leadership he chose as a colour transparency. I’ve heard so many colours used before in this activity, even combinations of colours like a rainbow, but never before this word. It cut right through. I think that’s the point. Transparency, honesty and authenticity brings out the realness that our families, schools, workplaces and communities are hungry for as we navigate the opportunities, successes and challenges within our 21st Century global village.

“Leadership is not a position. It consists of action with transparency and to set high example of integrity, honesty and to strive for welfare for all.” – Dr. Anil Kr Sinha

The sentiments expressed in the quote above are an inspiration for us as we support the development of leadership potential within our client schools and beyond. We believe ‘leadership is the purposeful practice of using our thoughts, words and actions to make a difference in our own and others lives’. This doesn’t need a badge. Or a particular title. Or any special ceremonial clothing. All it needs is individuals owning, practicing and remembering that our daily thoughts, words and actions matter, that we are all capable of making a difference in our own and others lives and that we’re all in this together.

“Transparency is the first step towards accountability.” – Unknown

As we get caught up in blame we forget and disown our own and each others humanness. So having the courage to mindfully and compassionately step into accountability through transparency just ‘makes more sense’. We as individuals and groups won’t ever nail it 100% of the time. But hopefully we can make it a practice to keep realigning the compass as we veer off course. Just like the inspiring leader will who shared this aspiration with the group last week.

“And transparency makes more sense.” – Envy Parade (The Love Before)