LIFESTYLE NEWS - Leadership is about far more than achieving targets or delivering results – it is about serving others and creating opportunities for people to thrive.
This is according to Karen Farred, Chief Executive Officer of Girls and Boys Town South Africa, who says compassion, resilience and hope are the foundations of meaningful leadership, particularly in the child and youth care sector.
Writing during Women's Month, Farred says this year's theme, "Empowered Women Empower the Nation", highlights the important role women play in shaping stronger families, communities and future generations.
Children at the centre
Farred says every decision at Girls and Boys Town South Africa is guided by one question: How will this improve the lives of children and young people?
The organisation supports vulnerable children and families through therapeutic care, educational support, family strengthening programmes and youth development initiatives.
"When we empower a child to believe in their potential, strengthen a family to overcome adversity or equip a young person with the confidence to build a brighter future, we create a ripple effect that extends far beyond our organisation," she says.
Celebrating women who care
Farred also paid tribute to the women working across the child protection sector, describing them as the driving force behind safe and nurturing environments for vulnerable children.
From child and youth care workers, social workers and educators to administrators, cooks, cleaners and drivers, she says these women demonstrate compassion and resilience every day.
"Their impact reaches far beyond our campuses. They strengthen families, uplift communities and remind us that compassion is one of the most powerful forms of leadership."
Building brighter futures
Working in child protection means confronting trauma, neglect and inequality while never losing sight of what children can achieve, Farred says.
She believes success is measured not by job titles, but by seeing young people overcome adversity, complete their education, find employment, rebuild family relationships and gain the confidence to pursue their dreams.
"Every child deserves more than survival. They deserve the opportunity to dream, to belong and to realise their full potential."
A call to empower others
As South Africa marks Women's Month, Farred encourages women to recognise the influence they have in their homes, workplaces and communities.
She says empowerment begins with believing in oneself, supporting others and creating opportunities for everyone to succeed.
"When women lead with courage, compassion and purpose, they do far more than transform organisations. They empower families, inspire communities and help build a stronger, more inclusive South Africa."
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