As part of efforts to open up the conversation on leadership and social change on campus, Ashesi hosted the U.S Ambassador to Ghana for a Guest Lecture on Youth Leadership and the Future of Society. It was the first time that H.E Ambassador Gene Cretz was visiting Ashesi since his arrival in Ghana in 2012.
Speaking to a capacity-filled lecture hall, Ambassador Cretz read a short address that led his conversation with the Ashesi community, sharing lessons he had learned throughout his life and his career that had helped shaped his leadership philosophy. It was a rare opportunity for the audience to engage with the Ambassador and he shared personal stories and experiences that were both intriguing and inspiring.
Practice the skills you will need, seek out role models, and influence people
Speaking on his top three lessons for any one to be a good leader, Ambassador Cretz first mentioned that everyone needed to make deliberate effort to practice the skills necessary for good leadership.
"One of the most important skills I learned over the years, and had to continually practice to get to the level where I was satisfied, was listening,” Ambassador Cretz said. “That ability to listen, to dig a bit deeper, and then to act on what you learn has been invaluable to me as I met leaders and attempted to make sense of political and economic events in numerous countries in Asia and the Middle East, as well as here in Africa.”
The Ambassador also spoke about the importance of role models, and the necessity of starting early when setting out to be a leader.
“Colin Powell has served as an inspiration for me, with his 13 rules that are at the heart of his leadership style,” Ambassador Cretz mentioned. “I reflect on the leadership he showed as our Sixty-Fifth Secretary of State and as the Chairman of America’s Promise, a non-governmental organization that builds capacity among youth.”
The rules of Colin Powell, that stood out most for the Ambassador, were that good leaders “check the small things, share credit, remain calm and kind.”
The Ambassador remarked that Colin Powell would always say that he was a late bloomer, and that leadership can be deliberately cultivated. “So even those of you who not think you have innate leadership abilities – don’t despair,” he added. “Take advantage of participation opportunities and challenge yourself to be a teammate and demonstrate leadership skills in all that you do. You can cultivate the habits of mind and communicate with others so that you lead where you are planted.”
The Ambassador opened up for members of the Ashesi community to ask him questions, “no matter how provocative.” It was an engaging session, with questions that probed Ambassador Cretz’s views on democracy, to his experiences as a child.
In his closing remarks, the Ambassador explained to the students in his audience, that “each of you has a passion for excellence in a field of study or practical endeavor, or you would not be here at Ashesi. Learn to build on and practice habits that let you live and grow your passion.”