The 7th annual Women in Leadership conference will be taking place on March 3, 2020. To celebrate its 7th year involved with the conference, CCI would like to highlight 7 women that have been with the conference since the start. In today’s feature, meet PR alumna Amanda Wiggins.
Amanda is the Program Director of Leadership Tallahassee, an organization devoted to cultivating a diverse network of emerging and experienced leaders that are committed to improving the community. Below, Amanda discusses what leadership means to her.
1) Why is leadership important?
Leadership, specifically effective and authentic leadership, is important for growth, success and innovation. This principle is applicable to an individual, organization, business, community and beyond.
2) What advice would you give to your younger self?
“Do it all while it is at your fingertips.” While in college, I experienced an invisible safety net of opportunities and people wanting to help me find my path. I still feel that in a way but as a professional it is different and less forgiving. Essentially, I would tell myself to take advantage of the time and opportunities that I was labeled a “student.”
3) What challenges do you face as a female leader and how do you overcome them?
Individual mindsets are the thoughts and behaviors women might have that hold them back. This is something I intentionally work to overcome. I challenge myself to be equally confident in my ability and value whether I am the most experienced person in the room or not.
4) Name one way women can support one another.
Sharing our experiences with one another is incredibly supportive to women. As a professional and new mom, I experienced the power of other women supporting me by the well-intended pieces of advice, stories of their own experiences and, frankly and tangibly, the casseroles and maternity clothes.
5) What is a goal of yours for 2020?
Intentionally incorporate more creativity and celebration into my life and those around me. Basically, more color and confetti.
We hope to see you at the Women in Leadership Conference on March 3rd at the Turnbull Conference Center from 3:30-8:15 pm. You can hear Amanda speak at the “Getting Involved Locally: Your Community of Mentors” workshop from 6-7 pm. Register for FREE here.