Melanie L. Washington, Esq.’s Post

While LinkedIn is typically a platform for work-related content, today, I share a personal message. I consider myself incredibly fortunate to have discovered Heart Haven Outreach (H2O), an organization dedicated to serving middle and high school teens. H2O serves middle & high school teens with a mission to transform the lives of teens through caring relationships and programs that support healthy development of an emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual level. Being a mentor and volunteer has opened my eyes to the pressures that today’s kids face, the fears many share, what inspires them to want to do better, and so much more. Although some of the stressors kids deal with differ from adults, it’s been interesting to hear how – at a high level, they’re remarkably parallel to those of adults such as the fear of failure and pressure to please others. I had the opportunity to attend a local Stars Leadership conference to support high schoolers facilitating leadership workshops for middle schoolers. Some takeaways: · "Instead of getting out of your comfort zone, expand the one you're in…" – Brittany Richmond, MS (Keynote Speaker) · "Tell me more" – a simple yet powerful phrase that fosters deeper conversations (Brittany Richmond, MS) · Importance of talking: talking about how and what we are feeling · The remarkable influence and maturity exhibited by teenagers, leading workshops on perseverance, handling peer pressure, and managing fears · How genuine, respectful, and caring our youth can be. I see this every week at H2O, but the positive messages and comments they shared with one another and towards adult staff and volunteers could bring me to tears of joy Heart Haven Outreach has profoundly enriched my life, not just as a mother to a soon-to-be 13-year-old son but also as a fellow human being. The staff and teens at H2O have positively impacted me, reminding me of the immense potential within the next generation. I am excited to witness these young leaders, who embody empathy and love, contribute meaningfully to society. #starsvvsd23 #TellMeMore #leadership #nextgen

Have you heard the story of Helen Keller? 🌟 She lost her sight and hearing at a young age. With the help of her teacher, Anne Sullivan, Helen learned to communicate and became a powerful advocate for people with disabilities. Her story shows that determination and the right skills can transform lives. This is how you can contribute too: ▪️ Mentorship: Can you offer guidance and support to young professionals in your network? Your experience could be the key to unlocking their potential. 🌟 ▪️ Training Programs: Are you investing in skill-building programs that focus on emerging technologies and essential soft skills? Consider how you can contribute to this crucial area. 📚 ▪️ Opportunities: Are you creating spaces where youth can apply their skills, gain experience, and grow their careers? Every opportunity counts in shaping their future. 🌍 Let's continue to support and inspire the next generation of leaders, innovators, and changemakers together. ✨ Your involvement makes a difference. Let's build a brighter future, one skill at a time. #WorldYouthSkillsDay #YouthEmpowerment #Leadership #Innovation

This article made me reflect upon how mentorship has changed of the years.   When I was 20 I didn’t feel invited, I felt I had to prove myself worthy by delivering on the same level (and ways) of the seniors. Back in the day when a blacksmith taught his son his profession, he started with a hammer the size the son could handle. Based it on the qualifications of the trainee. This article is about inclusion and the needs of gen Z. I believe it is how we will manage to engage next generation. Providing them with the right tools. #leadership #mentorship #nextgen

Wix is an open platform.  Yes, even when it comes to internal mentoring programs. It started by letting anyone in the company who is an expert in Personal Growth sign up as a mentor at our internal Experts Marketplace. Those who signed up were invited to a professional mentoring kick off session in order to have the right toolset for the role. If you’re at Wix and you want a mentor, all you have to do is simply go to the internal Experts Marketplace website, choose a mentor from Wix and schedule a session with them. The Experts platform is based on the product of Wix Bookings, which allows to define services (like mentoring sessions) and mentors (that sign themselves up in a form in this case) all with just a bit of glue (Velo code).  All you need is the magic touch of inspiration and motivation to build whatever you need. P.S. If you want to do it too, reach out :)

I want to spark a dialogue that transcends the ordinary, a conversation that propels us to reimagine the very core of student success. 💡 What unconventional strategies fuel success in your realm? Are you unraveling innovative threads, cultivating genuine inclusivity, or sculpting leaders adept at navigating the intricacies of our ever-evolving world? This isn't just a call to share; it's an invitation to engage. Dive into the discourse and share your distinctive visions and transformative narratives. How are you actively reshaping the narrative of student success in higher education? Let's not just talk; let's learn from one another. Your voice matters in this collective exploration. 🚀💬 #EduConversations #StudentSuccessRethought #studentsuccess #HigherEdInnovation #JoinTheDiscourse

As educators, we play a crucial role in nurturing their potential, inspiring their dreams, and guiding them on their journey. 👉 Let’s take this day to reflect on the incredible impact we have and the ways we can further support and uplift our students. 🎉 Ways that you can celebrate International Youth Day in your classroom: ▸ Empower Voices: Encourage students to share their ideas, passions, and aspirations. ▸ Promote Leadership: Provide opportunities for students to take on leadership roles and make decisions. ▸ Foster Innovation: Support creative projects and initiatives that allow students to explore new solutions and technologies. ▸ Build Community: Create a supportive and inclusive classroom environment where every student feels valued and heard. Today, let’s recognize the boundless energy and creativity of our youth and commit to empowering them every day. Share how you’re celebrating International Youth Day in your classroom and the positive impact you’re making! https://lnkd.in/gTYvwYV #InternationalYouthDay #EmpowerYouth #TeachingInspiration #FutureLeaders #ToolsForSuccess #EducationalEmpowerment #YouthImpact #CelebrateStudents

First-generation college students are innovators, leaders, and change-makers. They bring diverse perspectives, a strong work ethic, and a deep commitment to their education. Their unique experiences enrich our campuses and drive us toward a more inclusive future. As educators and leaders, it's our privilege to support these students in maximizing their potential: Amplify Their Voices: Create spaces where their ideas and perspectives can shine. Their insights can lead to meaningful change. Build on Their Strengths: Offer opportunities that align with their passions and talents, empowering them to lead and inspire others. Celebrate Their Impact: Recognize and honor the contributions they make to our academic communities and beyond. First-generation students are not just succeeding—they are thriving and redefining success on their own terms. By investing in their growth, we’re investing in a brighter, more equitable future for all. Let’s continue to uplift and celebrate their contributions. #FirstGen #HigherEducation #Leadership #Innovation #Equity #FirstGenFriday

Walking into my son’s classroom adorned with the words "𝐖𝐞 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐥 𝐭𝐨 𝐛𝐞 𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐝, 𝐦𝐚𝐤𝐞 𝐟𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐩𝐥𝐚𝐲 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐫𝐲 𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐛𝐞𝐬𝐭" sparked a sense of optimism. Witnessing this core value embedded in such a young age was both insightful and encouraging. In a world often focused on individual achievement, seeing such deliberate emphasis on kindness, collaboration, and personal growth offered a refreshing perspective. This wasn't just about early academics; it was about nurturing the seeds of future leaders who understand that purpose extends beyond personal ambition and embraces the collective good. The inclusion of "𝐩𝐥𝐚𝐲 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐫𝐲 𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐛𝐞𝐬𝐭" within the classroom's purpose resonated deeply. These seemingly simple elements are the foundation of the qualities crucial for the leaders of tomorrow. The teacher wasn't simply imparting knowledge; she was shaping young minds to become architects of a kinder, more equitable future. Authenticity and genuine connection are frequently seen as leadership traits, and here was this young classroom, brimming with purpose and kindness, serving as a reminder of the power of starting early. This wasn't just a classroom; it was a microcosm of possibility. It reminded me that even amidst global challenges, we can cultivate leaders who prioritise kindness, collaboration, and a shared purpose. This experience left me feeling inspired and confident that the future, shaped by these young minds, might offer a brighter path forward. The teacher, through their dedication and focus on purpose, instilled values that can change the world, one kind act, one playful moment, one "trying my best" at a time. 𝐈𝐭 𝐢𝐬 𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐜𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐩𝐨𝐧𝐬𝐢𝐛𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐭𝐨 𝐞𝐧𝐬𝐮𝐫𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐫 𝐠𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐮𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐟𝐥𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐢𝐬𝐡 𝐭𝐡𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐥𝐢𝐟𝐞'𝐬 𝐣𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐧𝐞𝐲. #earlychildhood #leadershipdevelopment #purpose #behaviours #leadershipinsights #classroom #teachersmatter #futureleaders

As Founder & CEO of Applied Educational Systems from 2011 to 2013, I hit rock bottom and endured tough times. A few employees left, doubting my shift in strategy and vision. Their doubts added to the criticisms I received from former employees, friends, and peers. In those dark moments, the support from those around me was my lifeline. Their encouragement, kind words, and listening ears helped me navigate those challenging times. 👉 If you're a CEO or leader facing tough times, don't lose hope! Use these moments to grow and learn. Remember, you’re not alone. Reach out to your peers, friends, and loved ones for support and guidance. There is strength in numbers. Tracy Schultz Alex Schultz Austin Schultz Hayley Schultz Griffin Schultz Sophia Schultz #LeadershipJourney #StayStrong #SupportNetwork

💡 The leaders of tomorrow are asking incredibly important questions today. During my engagement with Cornell University's Jeb E. Brooks School of Public Policy, I was both impressed and challenged by the incredible questions the students in attendance asked, like: ❓ How do you make room for storytelling and connection in organizations, especially if someone doesn't understand how important their story is to share? ❓ How have you navigated imposter syndrome? Do you have any advice for early careerists, especially women, on overcoming feelings of inadequacy in a role? ❓ How do you initiate and maintain strong relationships in a profession? Do you have specific advice for introverts? The questions and discussions during our Lunch and Learn, the Q and A during the keynote, and the reception afterward made it clear to me that the leaders of tomorrow are thoughtful, engaged, and ready to support the whole person when they get the opportunity to lead. I can't wait to see what these incredible students from all over the world accomplish in their respective professional journeys. #mcsllc #cornelluniversity #futureleaders