Mohan Sivaloganathan, CEO of Our Turn, discusses the importance of people of color and their impact on the next generation of leadership in the nonprofit sector. Mohan’s organization focuses on training young people to be effective change makers in order to create a more equitable education system. They emphasize the power of storytelling to inspire change and the need for young people to have a voice in decision-making processes.
Mohan highlights the challenges faced by young leaders of color, who often encounter obstacles and boundaries that limit their access and opportunities. He emphasizes the importance of allies and sponsors who can support and advocate for these emerging leaders. Mohan believes that young people should not have to conform to a specific mold and should be encouraged to bring their authentic selves to the table.
The conversation delves into the discomfort that some individuals may feel when discussing issues of race and diversity. Mohan suggests that focusing on fairness, opportunity, and access can help make these conversations more approachable. He also discusses the need for organizations to support people of color in leadership roles by recognizing and amplifying their unique strengths and characteristics.
The hosts and Mohan touch on the resurgence of personality profiling and labels in the workplace, expressing their concerns about putting individuals into boxes. They advocate for a more individualized approach to leadership development and support.
The interview emphasizes the importance of nurturing and empowering the next generation of leaders, particularly those from underrepresented communities. Mohan encourages organizations to embrace the strengths and perspectives that people of color bring and to create a culture of support and inclusivity.
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