Leading with Purpose: Lessons in Building Teams, Cultures, and Legacy

Leadership is not about the title or the ladder you climb. It is about how you show up, the culture you build, and the impact you leave on the people you serve. Growing up in New York City taught me resilience, grit, and the value of community. Those lessons stayed with me as I rose to become a Vice President at a Fortune 20 company, leading teams to success by focusing on people first.

This is not just a corporate story. It is about creating opportunities, breaking barriers, and empowering others to see their potential and rise higher.

Leadership is Rooted in Support

I have always believed that when you put people first, success follows. Leadership is not about barking orders or chasing numbers. It is about creating a space where people feel valued, respected, and supported.

I have worked with people who doubted themselves, especially women who felt unseen or overlooked in the workplace. By mentoring, listening, and pushing them to embrace their strengths, I watched them step into their power. Seeing someone rise to a leadership position because they believed in themselves is the kind of success that stays with you.

Support is not a nice-to-have. It is essential. When your team knows you are in their corner, they will bring their best to the table every time.

Striving for Greatness is Non-Negotiable

Excellence is not about being perfect. It is about setting the bar high and pushing yourself and others to reach it.

I have always been the kind of leader who believes in showing up and doing the work. I encouraged my teams to take ownership of their roles, celebrate their wins, and learn from their losses. Whether we were launching a new initiative or tackling challenges, we stayed focused on the bigger picture, growth as individuals and as a team.

Striving for greatness does not mean you have all the answers. It means you are willing to ask the right questions and bring others along with you for the journey.

Culture Drives Success

A strong team is built on culture. I am not talking about the posters on the wall or the company mission statement. Culture is what happens when no one is watching.

For me, creating a culture of trust, collaboration, and accountability was non-negotiable. It was about setting clear expectations, being consistent, and holding myself to the same standards I asked of others. I wanted my teams to know that we were all in this together, and their voices mattered.

A great culture does more than drive results. It creates a sense of belonging, purpose, and pride that keeps people engaged and motivated.

Success is About Impact

Throughout my career, I have led some of the most high-performing teams in the industry. But what I am most proud of is the people behind the numbers.

The true measure of success is not just what you achieve but who you help along the way. It is about opening doors, creating opportunities, and leaving a legacy that makes others believe they can achieve greatness too.

When I think about my greatest accomplishments, it is not the awards or accolades. It is the stories of people who said, “Because of you, I believed I could do it.”

This Is Just the Beginning

As I reflect on my journey, I know that leadership is not a destination. It is a daily choice to serve, inspire, and grow.

I am sharing my story because I know there are people out there who need to hear it. Whether you are just starting out or navigating your next chapter, know that your voice matters, your dreams are valid, and your impact can be limitless.

Let’s Build Together

Leadership is about creating something meaningful and lasting. It is about shaping a legacy that uplifts others and opens doors. I want to hear your story. What drives your leadership, and what legacy do you want to leave behind?

The journey to greatness is never walked alone, and the possibilities are endless when we inspire and empower each other to lead with purpose.