By JungSook Lim
(2024 LYP Program Participant & Scholarship Winner)
When I joined the LYP Women’s Leadership and Career Development Program, I thought it would be another leadership course to add to my list of experiences. As someone with over two decades in senior leadership roles, I’ve attended many seminars, read countless books, and embraced every opportunity to refine my leadership skills. What I didn’t expect, however, was how profoundly this program would shift my perspective—not just about leadership, but about myself.
Rediscovering Myself Through Authentic Support
LYP wasn’t about flashy frameworks or buzzwords; it was about creating a space where women—many of us immigrants—could connect, share, and grow together. The program’s emphasis on uplifting women from underserved groups, particularly immigrant women, resonated deeply with me. As someone who has navigated professional environments where cultural differences and implicit biases can feel isolating, this focus on community and support felt like a lifeline.
Jean and Lilit, the passionate leaders behind LYP, brought authenticity and relatability to every session. They didn’t just teach leadership; they embodied it by fostering a sense of belonging and empowerment.
Facing Myself: Writing to My Future Self
One of the most powerful moments of the program was the exercise of “writing to myself from my future self.” It was an emotional breakthrough that forced me to confront not just my professional aspirations but my deepest fears and doubts. Through this process, I discovered clarity about what truly matters to me—not just in my career, but in my life.
This exercise gave me permission to step back and realign my goals with my values. It also served as a reminder that growth isn’t about achieving perfection but about embracing vulnerability and staying true to yourself.
Building Community and Confidence
Perhaps the most transformative aspect of LYP was the community it nurtured. For the first time, I experienced a professional environment where support wasn’t transactional but heartfelt. Jean and Lilit, along with my fellow participants, shared their stories openly and encouraged each other through moments of self-doubt and uncertainty.
This sense of belonging gave me the courage to confront imposter syndrome, which, despite years of success, had been a persistent challenge. The program’s lessons taught me to trust my instincts and celebrate my contributions without hesitation.
Redefining Leadership
Through LYP, I realized that leadership isn’t just about delivering results or solving problems—it’s about creating human-centered solutions that foster inclusion, empathy, and long-term impact. Leadership is about empowering others to thrive, nurturing diverse perspectives, and building environments where innovation flourishes.
Final Thoughts
The LYP Program didn’t just teach me skills—it reminded me of the power of community, empathy, and authenticity. For women like me, particularly those navigating careers as immigrants or in environments where cultural differences are felt, LYP offered more than guidance. It offered connection, confidence, and clarity.
I am deeply grateful for the program and the remarkable women I met along the way. As I continue my journey, I carry with me the belief that leadership is not a solitary path but one illuminated by the support and wisdom of others.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
JungSook (Jay S.) Lim is an Executive Advisor and former TD executive specializing in design, product strategy, and digital transformation. She is passionate about human-centred design, fostering inclusive leadership, and creating user-centric solutions that drive meaningful outcomes. Learn more about her work and connect with her on LinkedIn.
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