My daughters are growing up so quickly. Too quickly. Every time I pause to take that in, I think about all their future life experiences. I’m reminded that I won’t always be the one to teach and care for them. Rightly so, their inspiration should come from the world, but I pause to wonder how I can surround them with the right people who will lead and guide them on their journey. 

Future great leaders need today’s great leaders. 

Celebrate Inclusion on International Women’s Day 

I hope my daughters will have the opportunity to work alongside someone as talented as one of my colleagues and friends, Renuka Ramanathan. As we celebrate International Women’s Day this month, she’s among the first people I think of when I see this year’s theme: Inspire Inclusion. It’s because of Renuka and others like her that I’m the person I am today. 

Be a Role Model 

Renuka and I met at Capella Singapore, the premier resort destination in Southeast Asia. I was early in my career, growing my work experience and learning how to put my talents to work in the world. 

Luxury hotels are fast-paced environments. Guests have high expectations, and every detail matters. Yet, even under that pressure, Renuka coached and trusted her team. She was poised and caring. A team leader and player. A role model I emulate to this day. 

Give Good Feedback 

When we worked together, Renuka was the Front Office Manager. During the first month I was working for Capella, a guest wanted help orchestrating a special occasion. I was asked to assist him with anything he needed — making sure the room was set, special requests were taken care of, timing was perfect. 

It was important for me to do a great job and Renuka made sure I was set up for success. I encountered some challenging learning moments while trying to transform our guest’s ideas into reality. Some of the ideas I realized we could (and unfortunately) couldn’t pull off in the same manner they were envisioned. Renuka could have responded harshly to me not understanding some of the ideas or limitations, but instead she helped me figure out the path forward and patiently explained how we would exceed this guest’s expectations and maintain our world-class approach. 

In doing this, Reunka ensured I learned without losing faith in myself. I will always be grateful for her caring feedback. 

Lead with Inspiration 

Happy International Women’s Day! It’s a joy to celebrate this day with each of you. Talent Plus research proves over and over again that when we focus on talent, our workplaces naturally become not only more diverse and inclusive, but also inspiring. Renuka showed me through her example and approach years ago what this kind of space looks and feels like.  

I wish the same for you.