You, my dear, are magnificent.

Just look at you - your whole big heart, your beautiful vulnerability, your creativity, your desire to serve and lead from a place of integrity and nuance.

You know this. Or - at least you do, intuitively.

Some combination of experiences along your journey may have made you shaky in this belief: maybe gaslighting, maybe being passed over for opportunities, maybe that book project not yet coming to fruition, maybe having your heart broken again and again as the institutions you have thrown so much of your talent and heart into failed to live up to their own values. Maybe you have felt deep shame because of these traumas. I’m not afraid of anything you throw at me, because I’ve been there myself.

The seed of self-trust and belief is within you, ready to sprout. It is time to unleash the full radiance of your brilliance. There is no doubt that your shine will light the way for many of us. I cannot wait to hold your book in my hands. Or listen to your album. Or see your entrepreneurial vision come to light. Or see you enter the executive level with clear values and the deep love and vision for equity that your organization has long needed. The world needs your voice. I need your voice, and I’m just here to walk alongside you.

I wish you water, rest, deep breaths, and long loving looks at your own reflection.

Love,

Your leadership doula,

Idrissa