Full disclosure, my guest this week is my niece Iman Kibukamusoke so I am already a huge fan! I think you will be too when you hear about the remarkable breadth and depth of experience Iman has accrued in her 23 years and how she is using it to shape the future of work from the inside. Iman is a consultant at EY in Canberra, a student, a volunteer and an active participant in her community. She has some whip-smart observations about workplace structures, leadership styles, what young people bring to the table and where they are not being given a voice.
We talk about generational differences, identity, diversity, and equity, as well as Iman’s experiences with different types of leaders. Iman shares her aspirations for a workplace that values the individual and prioritises creating a psychologically safe environment where everyone feels comfortable being themselves. If you thought Gen Z has nothing to add to the leadership conversation, this interview will make you think again!
Shownotes
See more at: http://www.zoerouth.com/podcast/leadership-perspective-iman-kibukamusoke
Key Moments
Introduction [00:00:04]
Setting the scene for a discussion on generational differences in the workplace.
Iman's background [00:02:03]
Iman talks about her work and volunteering experiences, including her work as a consultant at EY, her studies in psychology and commerce, and her volunteer work with Headspace and Lifeline.
Experiences with leaders [00:06:27]
Iman shares her experiences with different types of leaders, both positive and negative.
Leadership styles [00:08:45]
Iman discusses the leadership styles she admires, including empathetic and collaborative leaders, and her preference for more feminine communication styles.
Identity and diversity in the workplace [00:11:19]
Gendered communication styles and how identity and diversity play a role in the workplace.
Challenges of being a person of colour in the workplace [00:16:27]
Iman shares her experiences as a biracial person of colour in the workplace, including issues of tokenism and being asked to speak on behalf of other marginalised groups.
Generational Differences in the Workplace [00:22:56]
How do older generations perceive younger generations?
Psychological Safety [00:30:32]
Iman and Zoë discuss what a psychologically safe workplace looks and sounds like, and how it enables individuals to be who they are and speak up in a way that suits them.
Equity vs Equality [00:33:28]
What’s the difference and why a flexible approach to providing help is much more effective.
Softly Softly Leadership [00:34:47]
Iman shares her leadership aspirations.
Young People's Unique Perspective [00:36:07]
Valuable experiences - whatever the age.
Learning from Gen Z [00:37:20]
Zoë discusses the importance of tapping into the perspective of Gen Z and incorporating it into leadership and decision-making.
