With a radiant smile and an unwavering determination, Paola Serola, a continental European woman, has become a beacon of inspiration for the ethnic community in Aotearoa, New Zealand. Despite facing numerous obstacles as a newcomer to the country, Paola’s resilience and leadership skills have shone through, empowering those around her.
Having called Aotearoa, New Zealand home for the past 7 years, Paola has immersed herself in the local community, actively contributing to organizations like Christchurch Resettlement Services and the Dante Alighieri Society of Christchurch. Her involvement in these groups has enabled her to connect with fellow migrants, offering them a sense of belonging and support. However, Paola’s own journey as a leader has not been without its challenges. “Back in my country I was in a leadership position and when I moved to New Zealand, I had to start from zero just like a snake and ladder game, she shares candidly”.
Paola’s proudest achievement as an ethnic woman leader lies in her unwavering commitment to uplifting others. She loves to support, help, and listen to other women around her. Her leadership philosophy is centered on self-awareness, self-love, and a charismatic approach to empowering others. “Protect and develop what I consider my values, for myself and others, whether tangible or intangible, for example, the value of awareness and respect for themselves’.
With a passion that radiates from her very being, Paola’s charismatic style inspires those around her. She believes in supporting others and loves seeing people succeed, especially those who come from a different background and have difficulties, fears, and lack of confidence.
Paola’s journey of self-discovery and leadership has been profoundly influenced by the Ethnic Women’s Leadership course she recently attended. “This course helped me discover many sides of myself and also helped me increase my self-esteem, so to bring it out and share it with others who have just arrived in a new country and into a new world,” she shares. “It’s been a journey to discover the leader I am and especially the leader I want to be… I would like to be.”
Paola Serola’s story is a testament to the invincible spirit of ethnic women leaders, who, despite facing numerous challenges, rise above adversity and become beacons of hope, empowerment, and inspiration for their communities.
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