On Wednesday, 28th February 2024, Strathmore University Business School had the privilege of hosting Sonja Leighton-Kone, the Assistant Secretary General and Deputy Executive Director at the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS), for a public lecture session.
During the session, Sonja shared her inspiring leadership journey within the UN and offered invaluable advice to the students present, encouraging them to aim high and pursue their aspirations with courage. She emphasized the importance of prioritizing personal values and ethics, noting, “Career progression isn’t always straightforward and comes with its fair share of obstacles. It’s crucial to determine the sacrifices and trade-offs you’re willing to make to advance in your career.”
Sonja provided practical insights on navigating the complexities of the workplace, especially for those aspiring to leadership roles. She highlighted the importance of self-control, advising individuals to listen attentively and refrain from reacting impulsively, even in challenging situations. Additionally, she stressed the value of building genuine connections and prioritizing the concerns of others, fostering an environment of respect and collaboration.
In line with this year’s International Women’s Day theme: Inspire Inclusion: Sonja emphasized the pivotal role of women in leadership in promoting gender parity policies. She advocated for creating inclusive spaces that empower both men and women to contribute their best selves to the workplace, emphasizing the importance of diversity and inclusivity in driving organizational success.
Sonja’s insights serve as a reminder of the importance of ethical leadership and the need for gender-inclusive policies in creating a more equitable and prosperous society.
Share This Story, Choose Your Platform!
Your journey to business excellence starts here. Subscribe today and be at the forefront of innovation and leadership.
