THE NATIONAL LEADERSHIP NETWORK

By Dillon Kennedy

As I reflect on my path to leadership, I recognise it as both a clearly defined journey and a complex maze filled with unexpected challenges. At 30 years old, my perspective on leadership has transformed significantly over the past decade, showcasing the growth that comes with experience—though I might humbly argue that calling it “wisdom” is somewhat of an exaggeration.

This blog intends to distill the lessons I’ve gathered, revisit the key moments that have influenced my journey, and share insights on how a young leader navigates the turbulent waters of change, ambition, and self-discovery. With the gift of hindsight and the zeal of youth, let’s delve into the essence of effective leadership.

I had the great honour of being elected as a Member of The Scottish Youth Parliament for Perthshire South and Kinross-shire. My time in the Scottish Youth Parliament taught me invaluable lessons in leadership, particularly in youth advocacy. I learned that effective leadership starts with empathy and the willingness to listen to the diverse perspectives of constituents. This experience highlighted that leadership involves being an integral part of the community and advocating for changes that align with its needs—whether through weekly drop-in sessions at Youth Services @ Scott Street or addressing pressing issues in my columns for the Perthshire Advertiser.

Serving as a UK Youth Leader for the US Consulate provided me with an immersive experience in the realms of leadership, culture, and international relations, offering me priceless insights into leading with integrity and purpose. One of the most significant lessons I learned was the importance of adaptive leadership. In an environment where policies, social dynamics, and cultural norms could change swiftly, I realised that leadership isn’t about having all the answers; it’s about confidently navigating uncertainty. This role also provided an excellent opportunity to connect with other young people both locally and in the United States.

On a personal level, losing my mum (My Rock) to Motor Neurone Disease (MND) in 2019 was a heart-wrenching experience that profoundly altered my perspective on leadership. MND, a relentless adversary, gradually took her away, creating an enormous void that seemed impossible to fill. This personal loss unexpectedly thrust me into a leadership role within my family, as I sought to navigate my feelings of grief and the early loss of my mother at just 25.

I believe that leadership involves navigating pain with empathy and resilience. Observing my mother’s daily struggle with such grace and bravery, despite her deteriorating physical condition, served as a powerful lesson in leadership. It underscored the strength of perseverance against tremendous challenges, the value of listening when words fall short, and the deep importance of being present rather than seeking prominence.

Her fight with MND enhanced my understanding of emotional intelligence in leadership. I learned to lead not just with my intellect, but also with my heart, recognising that everyone I meet—whether in personal or professional settings—faces unseen struggles. This realisation has transformed me into a more compassionate leader, one who values patience, acknowledges the necessity of support, and embraces the strength that comes from vulnerability. My mother’s battle with MND did not end with her passing; it continues to motivate me to strive to be my best self and advance my leadership journey, reminding me daily that true leadership is about serving others, understanding their challenges, and leading by example, even amid emotional turmoil.

As I now look to the future, I am focused on embracing new challenges that will enable me to grow and develop, while also using my past experiences and the invaluable lessons they have provided. My time as a Member of the Scottish Youth Parliament (MSYP) and a UK Youth Leader for the US Consulate has given me a solid foundation in leadership, characterised by empathy, adaptability, and vision. These experiences have highlighted the significance of community, collaboration, and the lasting effects of our actions.

Yet, it is the deeply personal experience of losing my mother to MND that has been the most transformative. Her struggle and eventual passing have fueled my determination to lead with compassion, to face challenges head-on, and to view every setback as an opportunity for growth. As I embark on a new adventure, I carry with me the commitment to make her proud, reflecting the strength and resilience she exemplified. I aspire to turn my grief into purpose, using my experiences to evolve into a better version of myself—a leader who not only succeeds but also uplifts, inspires, and leaves a positive legacy in the world, just as she did during her life.