Databank Foundation Young Leaders Mentorship Programme (YLMP)

The True Leadership Treasure

I went on search to be a leader,
Searching high and low above the meter,
 

I spoke with authority that I remember,
All would follow, all but one member,
 

“Why should I trust you?’ the one did ask,
“What have you done to achieve the task?”
 

I thought long and hard of what I did wrong,
Then I rolled up my sleeves and worked right along,
 

Shoulder to shoulder we got things done,
We worked side by side, all were one,
 

A mate of mine stumbled, I stooped to assist,
My hand he did grab, a smile did persist,
 

One was lost, didn’t know what to do,
I showed him how, the ropes, something new
 

I praised them one and all for their work,
All were unique, but I encouraged each quirk,
 

When the task was done, one did shout
“You’re a great leader!” they all turned about,
 

"Without you there to support our plight,
Lost would we be with no end in sight",
 

I learned that day that I lead best,
When I get off my butt and help the rest,
 

To lead by example is the true treasure,
The secret of leadership, in one simple measure.
 

Victor Antonio G., December 2004