Dhruti Shah – Celebrating 21 years of Clore Leadership
Emerging Leaders alumni, Dhruti Shah, reflects on her leadership journey and the impact of Clore Leadership.
Clore Leadership really made a significant difference to my life and leadership journey. Being exposed to people across the cultural spectrum gave me huge confidence to take ownership of my storytelling and leadership capabilities. I was working for the BBC when I was selected for the Emerging Leadership scheme. Since then I have authored an award-winning financial literacy book; I’ve received multiple fellowships and I’ve even worked and studied overseas. I also ended up leaving my job and taking a risk as an independent creative entrepreneur.
What key developments /impacts relate to your learning with Clore Leadership?
I had a fully formed identity as a journalist but my experience with Clore Leadership showed me that I could be even more interdisciplinary. Clore Leadership has given me friends, peers and an understanding that I have cultural leadership qualities. It also gave me opportunities that were being denied elsewhere. I was given a coach and those sessions identified that I hadn’t spent time working overseas. Immediately afterwards I applied for and was selected for a peace fellowship. I also felt confident about writing my book even though it could be considered creative non-fiction. And even leaving a safe institution which I had outgrown to try to do something different and experimental. I’ve maintained a relationship with Clore and have taken up opportunities via the Brilliant Routes scheme. It means I now have experience as a relational dynamics coach and I also learned more about restorative practices through the Studio Gaylene Gould programme Re-Up! It definitely helped change my life. I even encourage others to apply.
What advice/message would you give to cultural leaders of tomorrow as a result of your experience?
I think it’s important that the cultural leaders of tomorrow find techniques that will help you believe in yourself in times where you are being stretched or in situations that are lonely or full of inequity. By doing this, you’ll be able to hold your nerve.
What change would you like to see in the world of cultural leadership in the next decade?
I really hope that cultural leadership becomes a lot more inclusive and encourages participation from those with a multidisciplinary background. There is a fluidity in the arts but that’s not always reflected in rigid management structures.
Themes Alumni Journeys Leadership Styles Qualities of Leadership 21st Anniversary
