My opportunity to join this experience could not have come at a better time. I had previously had to delay my cohort start date due to business priorities. At the time I was frustrated to have to wait but I now consider it fate that allowed me to join cohort 6, immediately after I started my new role. I remember the first day in the room getting to introduce myself and tell my story. I was in a new role which was one of the biggest challenges of my career and I was taking time to reflect, listen to myself, be real, and authentic with a phenomenal group of women. What an opportunity to take time out during a stressful change to rejuvenate, reflect and truly reach within myself to find the true leader within. Those dedicated days each month became a personal place where I could reflect, learn from others and share my experiences. All along the way, I was settling into my new role where I was finding that true leadership, where technical expertise is limited, is truly liberating. 

I remember walking away from the last session of our cohort with such a huge feeling of appreciation for the experience and the opportunity to learn so much about myself. The powerful combination of experiential learning, the network of alumni, and the academic learning have given me a personal toolkit that I can dip into any time to help as I continue to hone my leadership skills and personal balance. The experience enhanced my passion for life-long learning in order to be the best version of myself and to enable others through my leadership skills.

The network of amazing women that I have met along this journey is second to none. Every time I get to spend time with AWL alumni, I leave with valuable insights that open up new ideas and choices, largely through listening to others tell their stories of events in their lives and professional careers. I treasure every opportunity to be a continuing part of this family.

What resonated most for me in the experience was the way they were able to create an environment where every single person almost immediately became comfortable enough to truly be vulnerable and real. This truly unique talent created a deep connection across the group from day one. My relationship and bond with the team has been invaluable in my personal journey. Their contrasting styles and obvious passion for what they do just works! I reveled in the fun yet emotional environment that they created. I don’t know how they do it but I do know that they need to keep on touching the lives of great women to help them find even more greatness within.