Navigating leadership: A journey as vice curator and curator

By AnaMaria Meshkurti

As I reflect on my time as one of the Curators and Vice Curators of the Geneva WEF Global Shapers Hub, the depth of the experience overwhelms me. It has been a journey marked by collaboration, growth, and the pursuit of positive change.

In the heart of one of the world's most influential cities, the responsibilities of a Curator and Vice Curator transcend the ordinary. From shaping dialogues on global issues to fostering a sense of unity among diverse individuals of the hub, the role was as challenging as it was rewarding. The privilege of contributing to a community with a shared commitment to impact is an indescribable honor. Both Curator and Vice Curator are key positions in the hub, but I always saw them as facilitation roles rather than anything else. Without the hub members there is no hub and therefore in such a role you are there to facilitate and support all members so that they achieve what they set out to do to impact the community.

It is also important to note that the Curator and Vice Curator work closely together and many times it is more of a co-curatorship rather than two different roles, given the goal is the same – to impact locally and globally as much as we can.

LESSONS LEARNED

Leadership is a tapestry woven from the threads of both triumphs and challenges. Throughout my tenure, I learned the power of effective communication and the art of balancing conflicting perspectives. The hub became a classroom, and each interaction, a lesson. It was not merely about steering a ship but about empowering each member to be their captain within a collective journey. For me some of my key lessons were:

1. Listen actively and incorporate those learnings into running the hub.

2. Lead with humility as most of the time the hub members are those who know the most about the topic and will ensure that you are doing the right thing.

3. Keep the communication channel open with everyone, so it is easy for hub members to reach out and share with you.

4. Be an example for others but allow everyone else to take on various opportunities. As a Curator or Vice Curator at times you may be invited to things that others cannot attend – do your best to include or share those opportunities with other hub members.

5. Market the projects so that outsiders are also involved. This way you increase the reach and impact of the hub.

TIPS FOR FUTURE CURATORS/VICE CURATORS

To those who will carry the torch forward, my advice is simple yet profound. Communicate openly and transparently; build bridges that connect hearts and ideas. Embrace the diversity within the hub, for it is this diversity that sparks innovation. Be resilient in the face of challenges and never lose sight of the hub's core mission and values. Approach leadership with humility and a willingness to learn from every hub member.

THE IMPACT OF THE GLOBAL SHAPERS EXPERIENCE

The Global Shapers community is a catalyst for change, both on a global and personal scale. As I navigated the intricate web of global issues alongside passionate individuals, my perspectives evolved, and my leadership style matured. This experience has been a cornerstone in shaping not only my professional journey but also my understanding of the world's interconnectedness.

As my chapter concluded, I extend my deepest gratitude to the Global Shapers community. To my fellow hub members, I implore you to consider stepping into leadership roles. It is not just a responsibility; it is an opportunity to be part of something greater than oneself. The journey may be challenging, but the impact is immeasurable. Seize the chance to contribute to positive global change. To future curators and vice curators, this is not just a role—it is a chance to be a beacon of change in a world that needs it. Embrace it, live it, and watch the world transform.

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.” As a Global Shaper, you are that small group, and the world awaits your change.”

— Margaret Mead

Meet the Shaper

AnaMaria MESHKURTI

Message from the Curator

by Alexandra Bustos Iliescu

“Hi everyone,

Since coming back from Bilbao, my heart and mind are brimming with appreciation, love, and growth, and I'd love to share that with you in any way I can. Joining the community back in 2021 was just the beginning. The Shape event was a real eye-opener. Stepping out of Geneva and getting to meet other shapers from all around was something else. It showed me the power of what we do, the real impact we can have. I want you to know that being a Global Shaper isn't just about being in a local hub. It's about being part of a big, worldwide family of over 10,000 people, all pushing in the same direction to make our communities better. It's about the friendships we form, the initiatives we start, and the collective effort to leave a positive stamp on the world.

And it's at events like this where you truly grasp the essence of our community, the staggering potential we have when we come together. Imagine a hub of over 45 shapers pulling off a mind-blowing three-day event, uniting over 250 shapers from around the globe to share 'harreman.' This Basque concept is the lifeblood of the Shape event; it’s not just about forming relationships but about a deeper exchange – 'hartu' (to receive) and 'eman' (to give). Embracing this theme, I've received an abundance of inspiration, motivation, and love. Now, I am energized to give all that back to our hub and keep the spirit of 'harreman' alive and thriving

Let’s all do this together,
Alexandra”

Meet the Shaper

Alexandra BUSTOS ILIESCU

Curator 2023-24