As I step into the role of Acting Lead Organiser while Chantelle begins an exciting new chapter on maternity leave, I've been reflecting on what it takes for women to step into leadership and what becomes possible when organisations intentionally create those spaces.
Twelve years ago, I arrived in Sydney as an international student from Colombia. I was finding my place in this city. I didn't yet understand how change happened here, the benefits and responsibilities of living in a safe democracy, or what role I could play in shaping public life. In 2019, an invitation to a Sydney Alliance action changed the way I saw this city and gave me an imagination of the kind of leader I could be here. For the first time, I realised that leadership wasn't reserved for a select few; it could be learned, practised and shared.
Through Broad-Based Organising, I have seen people from different walks of life build relationships, deepen their understanding of one another, and grow their confidence to act together. Through this process, I have witnessed organisations creating pathways for leaders whose voices are too often overlooked and strengthening our collective capacity to work for the common good. My hope is that, through the Alliance's upcoming Action Season, many more people across our city will discover their own leadership capacity through their organisations and communities as we act together.
My own journey is a testament to what becomes possible when strong organisations invest in developing, supporting and sustaining leaders over time, and when diverse leaders strengthen those organisations in return. Strong organisations need diverse leaders, and diverse leaders need strong organisations. Together, they create opportunities for people to step up when called and step back when life requires it, ensuring leadership can grow and endure.
As I take on this role, I am committed to creating more opportunities for leadership within our organisations and across our city. Together, let's continue building the strong organisations, diverse leadership, and vibrant civil society our city needs.
