photo by Kim Weston
Welcome to CLP’s newest alums from just-completed Cohort 34! By way of introduction, each new alum offered a reflection on one of two prompts (you can find the other one here).
…I have learned to sit with discomfort and find my way towards entering a difficult and authentic conversation with curiosity, respect, and integrity for the other person(s). This is borne from one of my favorite CLP exercises in “Clearness,” which has helped me pause and listen to understand before engaging in the courageous conversation. I’ve been able to carefully craft my narrative in alignment with my identity and values so I can be (re)present as my whole self: with confidence, humility, and presence. A truly liberating feeling, all actualized during my time as a CLP Participant and now as a CLP Leader — a full circle moment! -Anita Sharif-Hyder (CLP 34 Leader)
…how grounding, energizing, and nurturing it is to be in a cohort of people in New Haven who are deeply committed to improving their own lives and the lives of others. I especially value our “Level 5” conversations, moving beyond surface talk into what really matters with courage and honest reflection. Listening to everyone’s stories, hearing their wins and how they navigate their struggles, helps me feel less alone and inspires me to keep my own cup (at least half) full. -Mindi Englart
Intent and Impact… Pause and recover… Dance floor and balcony -Malwin Dávila (CLP 34 Leader)
Back in 2010 after a life crisis, I wrote down how I wanted to live including my core values… it shifted my mindset from limited beliefs to expanding possibilities. Love, freedom, purpose, learning and well-being — each value is the foundation for my choices and decisions towards a collective striving for real change and transformation. When asked to do without one or the other in the exercise, it felt like compromising and restricting a part of me. How very difficult it can be to stick to them in systems and professional settings designed to undermine them. Our success as leaders can be measured by how we live our values and by the strength of the community culture we co-create when they are aligned. -Armela Toro Waters
Curated by The Circle’s Creative Director & Editor, Lara Herscovitch (Cohort 10). To reach Lara directly: thecircle@clpnewhaven.org or Lara@LaraHerscovitch.com