Melissa Segura Guerrero

I can't conclude at this moment how this fellowship has changed my performance as a leader in the Mexican cultural sector. But definitely, I can say how this fellowship has changed my understanding and consciousness about the person I am, and all the possibilities that I have, based on my creativity, passion, and skills.

And this is the key impact, because, during my Clore fellowship I had one most important lesson: leadership is about yourself, as a person, as an individual; is about listening to your inner voice, be coherent and loyal to yourself. Throughout this year, I achieved an in-depth knowledge of myself that allows me to trust my instincts, to feel comfortable with myself, to speak loud and clear, to contribute and to transcend. It is my starting point: now I know that I have the responsibility to exercise and potential my leadership and be responsible and generous.

I have had the opportunity to work in the government for 15 years. My work and my responsibility had always had a tangible impact on society because I exercise a public position and have been promoting culture as a critical element in the development of my community. But until now that I have completed my Clore year, I have been able to understand how I can use my skills and experience effectively and assertively, not only to generate public policies, programs or financing but to generate an impact that transcends, inspire and generate more changes. I understand that a cultural leader should be an articulator, a consolidator that finds the best development opportunities for artists and the community. Now I have a clearer understanding of my role, and I believe that this is fundamental, because in many cases working in the public sector makes us lose sight of what our response should be towards others, losing sight of the best projects are building collectively and fall into the temptation to impose unilateral visions.