From Curiosity to Leadership: My Journey of Growth and Empowerment

I have always been a curious kid. Back in school, I was the kind of student who couldn’t sit still when there was an opportunity to be part of something bigger—be it a debate competition, a cultural event, or a student council meeting. Extracurricular activities weren’t just fun; they were my playground for learning, my first taste of leadership. Looking back, I realize how these experiences built my confidence, shaped my personality, and gave me the skills that I now use every day—whether it's effectively leading discussions, making quick decisions under pressure, or confidently presenting ideas to a group.

One of the defining moments of my journey was joining a school club that worked closely with a local NGO. This wasn’t just another extracurricular to add to my resume—it was the experience that truly opened my eyes to the power of service and community engagement. I started working with the organization at a young age, and that exposure changed my perspective completely. While my peers were focused solely on academics, I was out in the field—meeting new people, understanding challenges faced by different communities, and learning how to communicate effectively with diverse groups. It was more than just social work; it was leadership in action.

How Leadership is Built Through Experience

A lot of people think that leadership is something you’re born with. But in reality, it’s something you build, bit by bit, through experiences. Here’s what I learned from my journey:

• Confidence Comes from Action: The more I participated, the more I grew comfortable with taking initiative. Whether it was speaking up in meetings or organizing events, each step reinforced my ability to lead.

• Communication is Key: Engaging with different people—mentors, fellow volunteers, and community members—helped me develop the ability to express myself clearly and listen actively.

• Decision-Making Skills Develop Over Time: Being involved in projects taught me how to think critically and make informed choices, whether it was planning logistics or resolving challenges on the spot.
  

The Role of Exposure in Empowerment

Looking back, I realize how much of a head start this exposure gave me. While many around me were hesitant to step into leadership roles later in life, I had already been through the learning curve. My ability to adapt, speak up, and take initiative came naturally because I had been practicing it for years. This isn’t to say that leadership is only for those who start early—rather, it’s a reminder that the earlier you expose yourself to challenges, the sooner you grow.

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that empowerment starts with stepping out of your comfort zone. It’s easy to stick to what you know, but true growth happens when you push yourself to explore new opportunities, take on responsibilities, and learn from experiences. That’s how leadership is built—not through titles, but through action.

How You Can Cultivate Leadership & Empower Yourself

Leadership isn’t reserved for a select few. Here are some ways anyone can develop leadership skills and empower themselves:

• Start Where You Are: Look for opportunities in school, college, your workplace, or community initiatives.

• Say Yes to Challenges: Growth happens outside your comfort zone. Take on responsibilities, even if they scare you.

• Develop Soft Skills: Leadership is more about communication, teamwork, and problem-solving than just holding a position.

• Seek Mentors & Role Models: Learn from those who have walked the path before you. Their guidance can accelerate your growth.

Leadership Beyond Titles: Making a Difference

Leadership isn’t just about being in charge—it’s about taking initiative, supporting others, and making an impact. Whether it’s guiding a team, mentoring someone younger, or simply standing up for what’s right, leadership takes many forms. I’ve seen how small actions, like volunteering or mentoring, can create ripples of change, and that’s what makes it powerful.

Join the Movement: Lead, Empower, and Make a Difference

Reflect on your journey—what opportunities have shaped you? What steps can you take today to grow into a stronger leader? Whether it’s through Chandigarh First or another avenue, take that step. Leadership isn’t about waiting for the right moment—it’s about making the moment right.

At Chandigarh First, we believe in creating spaces where young minds can flourish, where women and youth are empowered, and where change is driven by action. If you’re looking for a place to start, get involved, volunteer, and be part of the movement. Because leadership starts with YOU.