The Power of Enlightened Leadership

Five years ago, I said yes to something that would shift my entire leadership path. I signed up for the Being ATHENA Leadership Cohort, led by the phenomenal Polo REO Tate, who quickly became a dear friend and a powerful influence in my life. It was in that space that I was introduced to the ATHENA Principles of Enlightened Leadership—eight core tenets that have guided me not only professionally but spiritually, emotionally, and personally.

When I first encountered the ATHENA Principles, I felt a deep resonance—like I had finally found language for the kind of leader I wanted to be and had always hoped to become. These were not abstract ideals or surface-level slogans; they were living truths that called me into alignment.

The transformation was immediate. I knew I had to go deeper. I became an ATHENA International Certified Facilitator, and I've since had the honor of guiding diverse groups of men and women across the world through these principles. Every cohort reinforces what I know to be true: these principles are universal. They transcend culture, location, gender, and profession. They are human.

The ATHENA Leadership Model is grounded in these eight foundational principles:

• Live Authentically

• Learn Constantly

• Advocate Fiercely

• Act Courageously

• Foster Collaboration

• Build Relationships

• Give Back

• Celebrate

Each of these speaks to a different dimension of who we are and how we show up.

Live Authentically pushed me to examine where I was still hiding, people-pleasing, or editing myself for comfort.

Learn Constantly reminded me that leadership is never a destination—it's a living, evolving practice.

Advocate Fiercely awakened my voice not just for myself but for others whose voices have been silenced.

And Celebrate—well, it's the one I almost overlooked. But in a world constantly telling us to "move on to the next thing," choosing to pause and honor progress is revolutionary.

These are simple truths—but living them? That takes intention, reflection, and courage.

Facilitating ATHENA cohorts around the globe has allowed me to witness the ripple effect these principles create. When one person starts leading with authenticity and courage, it transforms not only their workplace but also their family, their friendships, and their entire community. I've seen it again and again.

And I've lived it myself.

This model isn't just something I teach—it's something I practice. It holds me accountable. It anchors me when leadership feels messy and uncertain.

I am deeply honored to serve as the keynote speaker at the Livingston ATHENA Chapter Launch Event on Thursday, July 31. To be able to share this message of empowered, emotionally intelligent leadership with a local and growing community of change-makers is a full-circle moment.

If you're nearby, I would love to see you there. This is more than an event—it's a movement.

If you're curious about integrating the ATHENA Principles into your life or organization, I invite you to reach out. Whether through a cohort, workshop, keynote, or coaching, this work has the power to reconnect you to what matters most—and unlock the kind of leadership that changes everything.