“Leadership Indianapolis produces the kind of visionary servant leaders that I know will make a difference for my faith community during this time of crisis.” – Shariq Siddiqui, SKL Class XXXV
What is your job title and the name of your organization?
Executive Director, Association for Research on Nonprofit Organization and Voluntary Action (ARNOVA) – www.arnova.org
What was your biggest take away from the SKL experience?
Leadership is not something you are born with. Leadership is something that you learn, develop and live every day.
What impact has your participation in SKL had on your work in the community?
SKL has opened many doors that were previously unknown or unavailable to me.
What leadership quality has been most useful in your work?
Servant leadership.
What board, committee, or other community leadership role have you had recently that was particularly important to you? Why did you choose to serve in that capacity?
I now serve on the board of the YMCA of Central Indiana. This is a way to serve the central Indiana region through a high performing organization. This opportunity came about because of contacts I made through SKL. In addition to being a graduate of SKL, you have provided support and encouraged others to participate in Leadership Indianapolis programs.
Can you tell us how and why you have made that a priority?
I have made a commitment to sponsor and fund young Muslim Hoosiers to participate in Leadership Indianapolis programs. I believe that we need high performing leaders to meet the needs of my faith community. Leadership Indianapolis produces the kind of visionary servant leaders that I know will make a difference for my faith community during this time of crisis.
What piece of advice would you offer to emerging community leaders?
Leadership is something that must be consistently practiced and continuously developed.