Chicken Verde: How Leaders Can Foster Unity
Recently, I had an opportunity to volunteer with one of my favorite organizations: World Central Kitchen.
On that day, over 600 hot meals were served — meals that offered both warmth and a moment of connection to anyone who wanted one.
Hot meals were served to people who had all of their possessions on the back of their bicycles,
to people who had lost everything in Helene or Milton,
to construction and remediation crews who were working in the area,
to husbands whose wives were experiencing illness back home,
to people wearing Trump hats,
to others wearing Harris t-shirts,
to others who were simply delighted about the prospect of a free, hot container of chicken verde.
Everyone we served a meal to was both gracious, and grateful.
People came to our tent from very different walks of life, and from differing perspectives and political viewpoints.
Nobody was turned away.
Nobody was asked why they wanted or needed a hot meal.
Food was a unifying force.
Reflecting on this experience raises essential questions for leaders, particularly in times when tensions and differences can feel amplified. How might leaders serve as unifying forces within their teams and organizations? What if, instead of focusing on what divides, leaders focused on shared values and common goals?
As we move forward, these are questions worth pondering. What are the threads that bind us, and how can we, as leaders, harness them to bring people together?
In times of division, true leadership shines through the ability to unite, inspire, and focus on what connects us. As leaders, fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose can transform challenges into opportunities for growth. If you're ready to lead with empathy, clarity, and resilience, we're here to guide you. Let’s work together to strengthen your leadership skills, cultivate a positive, inclusive culture, and create lasting impact — both in your organization and in your life.
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