When we think about community, oftentimes it is the people who live next door or within a specific radius from home. I live in a rural area, and defining our community can sometimes be difficult because there simply aren’t many people. This can result in a feeling of isolation. Because of this feeling, I started shifting my thinking of what “community” means, and how to create community no matter where I am in the world.
In the early 2010s, I began to identify a vision of the community I wanted to create: connect global leaders. Those three words took months to identify and articulate. Only recently have I realized how this vision has beautifully manifested with both people who are in close proximity to me and beyond borders.
During a trip to Australia, September 2023, Gardner and I were introduced by happenstance to Australians from two colleges in completely unrelated situations. These chance meetings became transformational for all of us, as we met regularly (despite a 16-hour time difference) to identify ways to collaborate. Fast forward six months, and we are back in Australia creating our community based on our shared passions.
When we do it right, community moves beyond common superficial interest and transactional relationships. Community becomes transformational for everyone involved.
Perhaps my shift in community has further evolved as I age. I feel like time is of the essence to openly create a community. I don’t have time for games, nor the patience for politics. I am looking to develop relationships and friendships with people who bring their whole selves to the community. Whether we are struggling or thriving, whether we are seeking answers or asking questions, we share our perspectives. And the more real I have become with others, the more meaningful the interactions become.
Create your community to bring authentic people together who have shared passion! Once you create your community and there’s a spark – keep the flames going. The more you can strengthen the community, it opens up a whole world that never existed. You never know where the collaboration and friendship will take you. Your community could be over 9,000 miles/14,500 kilometers away from home.
Special Note: We love and appreciate our communities, together we have created a spark! Monash University, Melbourne, AUS:
Nilushi (Nel) Karunaratne and Betty Exintaris The University of Sydney, Sydney, AUS:
Jocelyn Bussing, Andrew Bartlett and Andrew McLachlan
KerryOn Questions
- How would you define community?
- What are your passions that can spark your community?
- When will you create your community?
The Kerry behind KerryOn
My name is Kerry K. Fierke, Ed.D. (pron. Fear-Key) I have a unique combination of skills and experience – decades of fast-paced corporate experience in Fortune 100 companies and large health care organizations, combined with the academic rigor of a highly ranked research university. My focus is supporting others to create their own path to leadership development, lifelong learning, and a unique leadership legacy. Take a moment to focus on leadership, then KerryOn!
To see all KerryOn's and other leadership stuff, visit www.kerrykfierke.com.
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