shakti lab- empathetic and inclusive leadership

Storytelling for Diversity and Inclusion

Our purpose is to amplify the voices and leadership of anyone who identifies with a social disadvantage in order to create a more inclusive, empathetic, and collaborative society.

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Getting Involved

What We Do

storytelling for inclusion

Our aim is to provide a platform for storytelling in all its different forms. We host live, donation-based storytelling events both virtually and in-person, and we feature curated member stories on our blog, social media, and newsletter. We also offer coaching on how best to share your story, if needed.

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facilitated authentic communication and circling workshop

A donation-based interactive workshop focused on developing emotional intelligence, empathy, and communication skills through a series of partner and group exercises. This is being held virtually currently.

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feminine leadership coaching circle

A facilitated meeting for diverse womxn to share unique struggles in leadership, career, and communication. Collectively, we work together to both empathize and find solutions.

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masculine leadership coaching circle

A facilitated meeting for men who identify as socially disadvantaged to share their unique struggles and visions for the future of inclusive leadership.

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Our Principles

Mutual Respect

We treat each other with respect no matter what. Everyone has a right to share their unique story without being interrupted and without being disrespected in any way.

curiosity over judgment

We don;t judge or compare others’ disadvantages as “better” or “worse”. We simply remain curious about each person’s unique story. If we are not curious, we keep quiet.

Empathy and connection

We are in this because we desire connection and we desire to developing our inner empathy. We recognize how real empathy can sometimes be the greatest gift we give another person, and we want to learn how best to give it.

active collaboration

We aim not only to offer empathy but to help each other and/or collaborate, when we can. This can be anything from sharing someone’s story on social media to making a useful connection for someone. We aim for the connections we make here to transcend this space.

continuous learning

We are in this because we want to continuously learn and grow as human beings. We are open to challenging ourselves and our “edge”, whatever that may be. We desire a society that is based in trust and collaboration rather than fear and competition.

collaborative and transparent leadership

We each see ourselves as leaders of this collective in some way. That means we are each a part of shaping the experience. We offer our feedback, skills, and ideas on how events and operations can be improved, with the goal of producing greater impact.

What Drives Us

Our Mission

Shakti is a Sanskrit word that has many layers of meaning. It can best be translated as strength, but it is the kind of strength that is receptive, empathetic, and inclusive. Our mission is to develop this quality in the leaders of today and tomorrow through creating spaces for authentic storytelling.

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