Leadership Lessons for 2025: Dancing Toward Change
When I facilitated leadership programs at the Haitian Center for Leadership and Excellence, I often shared with young leaders what's been called the "First Follower" video from Derek Sivers' Ted Talk on How to Start a Movement. The video begins with one person dancing alone, appearing eccentric or even "crazy." Then, a second person joins in—a pivotal moment that transforms the lone dancer into a leader, inspiring others to follow and creating a movement. The lesson is simple yet profound: leadership isn’t just about you starting something bold; it’s about the courage of those first followers who turn your solitary act into a movement for change.
Reflecting on 2024, I’m grateful for life, health, and the many valuable lessons I learned. Yet, it was also a year of disappointment and sadness in my hyphenated worlds. In Haiti, gangs have devastated millions of lives and are continuing their path of destruction with no end in sight, while in the U.S., political divisions and economic disparities have widened among all communities. As someone connected to both countries, I see striking parallels—frustration with elites, economic insecurity, and a longing for change. These dynamics offer insight into the challenges ahead and reinforce my belief in the power of community.
Haiti’s 2011 election of Michel Martelly, a musician with no political experience, is a stark example. Frustrated by exclusion, Haitians rejected the status quo - the people with "ploms" or diplomas - choosing President Martelly, who promised change. Instead, he deepened inequality and brought instability. Even the U.S., which supported him initially, later sanctioned the former President for his ties to gangs and drug trafficking. Similarly, in 2024, Americans' frustrations and rejection of the status quo fueled President Donald Trump’s election. He has promised to shake up the establishment and an economic system seen as favoring Wall Street over Main Street. The next few months will show if that gambles pays off. Still, both cases reflect genuine discontent but also highlight the dangers of focusing on short-term relief over systemic solutions rooted in justice and inclusion.
These experiences have taught me three lessons. First, facts and figures rarely if ever change people's deeply held beliefs. Second, economic concerns often override other issues, leading to decisions with long-term consequences. Third, no outside savior is coming—change must come from within communities.
In 2025, these lessons will guide my focus. On the professional front, I am excited to embrace new and meaningful opportunities. On the personal front, I will dedicate my talents and gifts to strengthening communities here in the U.S. While I remain deeply committed to Haiti's future, I believe the transformative leaders Haiti needs must emerge from within. My role will be to create spaces where people feel heard and valued, foster dialogue, and address the root causes of social division.
This year, I will embody both the "first follower" and the "lonely dancer." I will amplify the work of leaders who may seem crazy or alone, and I will also be ready to start the dance myself, nurturing early followers as equals. Together, we will create movements that foster resilience, inclusion, and progress.
This year, I invite you to step into the dance for positive change, wherever your community may be.