Leadership Profile: Kimberly Nojima

Kimberly Nojima
Culver City HS Senior - CPY (Youth & Government Student Leader)

How has Youth & Government affected you as a leader?
CPY has definitely given me more confidence in public speaking, especially when I have minimal time to prepare what I want to say. It has also given me a better understanding of how politics works, whether it be in government, school, or in relationships to an extent. It has given me better people skills, as I get to meet new friends from across the state.

Who are some leaders who have been role models for you?
Well, you [Scott] obviously, as you gave me a lot of the advice that helped me through middle and high school. More recently, my role models have been Kevin Wong, as he has been youth directing at Westlight Church, and my Multicultural Literature and ASB Student Council teacher, Mr. Valverde, because he teaches and lives out his life with such integrity and positivity that I would also like to have in mine.

What is the best advice about being a leader that you'd like to share with everyone?
To be a leader you need to know that others are watching you. Therefore, live out your life keeping that in mind and keeping yourself in check. Granted, you will make mistakes and some bad decisions, but for the most part, live with integrity. Also, being a leader doesn't necessarily mean being loud and speaking about what you believe or what you want others to believe--its also about constant listening and action without words.

Please leave a comment, share with a friend or if you have a question - contact me: scott@growingforward.net

The Most Influential Leader...

For me this is something I don't think about much. I grew up not really "looking up" to anyone, but rather trying to become a better leader myself. When I do ponder this question, there are only 2 clear answers: 1) Jesus - regardless if you believe in Christianity or not, the character, influence and actions of Jesus are beyond comprehension. Instead of taking revenge, he would forgive. When he could take the credit, he deferred to his father. He tells us to love our enemies. He defied logic. What other person in history has a legacy now that is much greater than when he was on Earth? 2) My parents. I am very fortunate to have a dad and mom whom I confide it, ask for support and look to for guidance. I didn't have to search any further than my own house for someone to help me grow. That's my story, but now I want to hear yours...


Who has been/is the most influential leader in your life? Please share your comments!

Coaching Profile: Keri Kaba

Keri Kaba
Owner of Kabahead Kreations & Victory Fellowship Church Youth Director

Length of Coaching: 7 months

How has coaching helped you?
Coaching has helped me to identify and consolidate all of my ideas and skills and focus them in one direction, enabling me to be a more effective leader.

What have you benefited most from coaching w/ Scott?
Scott knows the ins and outs of running a ministry, teams, or a business and has been able to pass on a lot of his knowledge and first-hand experience to me, which has helped me problem-solve and make decisions. It is also great to have someone follow up on the goals and tasks that I set for myself so that I don't forget or ignore them.

Would you recommend coaching to others?
Yes! I'm learning more and more that in any profession, connecting with people who are able to guide you and provide insight into your work is important for growth. Coaching does just that--it is an intentional connection that you make on a regular basis, which grows you in a way you can't just get from reading a book or attending a one-time seminar.

Please leave a comment, share with a friend or if you have a question - contact me: scott@growingforward.net

What is the Most Important Trait of Leader?

Defining what makes a great leader is a challenging task. What you value in a leader is usually what you expect of a leader. I remember having a 4-hour long discussion during a class in my Master's program debating the most important traits of a leader, yet we still could not come to a consensus! That shows how difficult defining a leader can be! For me, the most important trait is integrity. Integrity is doing the right thing, no matter what. It is sticking to your word and following through with your commitments - consistently. Integrity is honesty. It is being able to trust what someone says. I believe it is the foundation of a leader. I've seen people get hired for their talents or abilities, but get fired for their character flaws. When a leader is "safe" and can be trusted, it is the beginning of a leader's lifelong legacy....

Now that's how I feel. Tell me what you believe is the most important trait of a leader!

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