My Grandmother, My Leader by Alexia

My Grandmother, My Leader by Alexia - May 2024 Scholarship Essay

Leadership, to me, embodies the essence of stepping up and stepping forward. It's about shouldering responsibilities that may not necessarily belong to you, all for the greater benefit of others. Stepping forward entails becoming a beacon of light, assisting others in finding happiness and success. It's a concept deeply ingrained in my understanding of what it means to lead.

In my life, my grandmother epitomizes the very essence of leadership. Being the only female in an impoverished household and the oldest of four siblings, she was put in a position of responsibility from an early age. Born into circumstances that demanded maturity beyond her years, she assumed roles that were not traditionally hers to bear. As a young girl, she juggled the roles of mother, chef, maid, sister, and babysitter, shouldering the weight of her family's needs with grace and resilience.

Tragedy struck with the passing of her father, further amplifying her responsibilities as she became the leader for her brothers. They looked to her for guidance and support, relying on her strength and wisdom to navigate life's challenges. My grandmother persevered in her job as the family's leader, supporting her siblings through all of life's ups and downs, in spite of the responsibilities imposed upon her.

Her journey into motherhood only served to deepen her commitment to leadership. She once again shown herself capable of supporting her family when faced with divorce and the difficult challenge of raising her children as a single parent. She worked tirelessly, often putting in overtime hours, to ensure that my mother had the opportunity to pursue her dreams of dance and higher education.

Throughout her life, my grandmother has remained a beacon of strength and resilience, embodying the true spirit of leadership. Her selflessness, sacrifice, and unwavering dedication to the well-being of her family have left an indelible mark on all who know her. She continues to be a guiding light, inspiring others to persevere in the face of adversity and to strive for greatness. In her actions, I see a shining example of what it truly means to lead – to step up, step forward, and make a positive impact on the lives of others.