My journey into leadership began with a series of unexpected turns. Growing up, I experienced frequent moves, attending five different secondary schools before graduation. Transitioning from small, intimate classrooms to bustling inner-city schools was a culture shock. Navigating these new environments safely became a pressing concern, prompting me to acquire new skills.
Early on, I noticed intricate social dynamics shaping leadership within student sub-groups, formal teams, and the broader community. Each school year, leadership hierarchies swiftly formed and evolved with the influx of new students and the departure of graduating seniors. This phenomenon, a hidden curriculum of sorts, fascinated me. Whether in schools or outside, I observed these patterns persist, underscoring the universality of human interaction dynamics.
As a Black, Indigenous Pasifika, Autistic woman, my unique identity made me stand out. Seeking safety, I learned to blend into groups, relying on my keen observation of leadership dynamics for success. Little did I realize then that these observations would become the cornerstone of my career and life’s purpose.
In 1998, I embarked on a pioneering journey as one of Canada’s few executive leadership coaches. Armed with a Master’s Degree in Leadership & Training from Royal Roads University and currently pursuing a doctoral degree in Leadership, Policy, & Governance at the University of Calgary, my coaching approach is informed by a blend of knowledge, lived experiences, and unwavering passion.
My Autistic disposition enriches my ability to immerse myself in subjects of interest and discern patterns within complex systems, a gift for which I am profoundly grateful. Undoubtedly, leadership in its myriad forms remains the focal point of my unwavering dedication and relentless pursuit.
Contact: tc@adaptcoach.com
Adapt Coaching & Training 