Maddie Henderson on LinkedIn: #lifeatvisa | 14 comments (2025)

Throughout the inaugural MOD section of "Leading Wicked Problems" at the UBP, I've had the privilege of exploring the intricate landscape of leadership, guided by reflections on personal experiences and deep dives into societal challenges. I’ve had opportunities to weave together threads of values, insights, and aspirations to craft a leadership philosophy rooted in compassion, resilience, and a commitment to positive change.Reflecting, I am reminded of the moments that have shaped my understanding of leadership. From grappling with familial tensions to exploring the healing power of storytelling, each class has been a step toward deeper self-awareness and empathy. At the core of my leadership philosophy lies a profound respect for diversity in opinion and a belief in the transformative power of compassionate empathy. I envision leadership as a journey of continuous learning and growth, grounded in the values of integrity, humility, and inclusivity. Understanding my experiences as a “healer” and “weaver” (two roles in the Building Movement Project’s Social Change Ecosystem Map) has taught me the importance of storytelling in fostering connection and healing collective wounds. I aspire to be a "builder," channeling my observations and insights into tangible actions that drive meaningful change.I have come away with five tangible leadership takeaways that I hope will follow me to San Francisco in September and beyond:Respect and empathy are foundational to effective leadership, fostering understanding and collaboration across diverse perspectives.Storytelling is a powerful tool for healing and connection, bridging divides and igniting positive change.Action is essential in translating insights into impact, driving tangible progress towards a more just and equitable society.Leadership is a journey of continual growth and learning, requiring humility, resilience, and a willingness to embrace complexity.Change is hard. It can feel impossible, and it’s okay to feel “weary” at times. Through it all, your passion and values will drive you towards action. As I conclude my final session with wonderful peers and our fearless leader, I am filled with gratitude for the lessons learned, the challenges overcome, and the connections forged along the way. Thank you Dr. Shimul Melwani for creating an environment that values learning from personal struggle, active listening, and, most of all, connection.

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As part of a Global Immersion Elective with the UNC Kenan-Flagler Business School, we’re currently in Bangkok, Thailand on a program led by Dr. Jenna Haugen. Exploring more in-depth about ecotourism and sustainability, we're meeting with companies and individuals working to help create positive and innovative solutions to our ecological challenges. This past week, we had the opportunity to speak with locals from Patom Organic Living . We were able to mold elephants from clay, plant in rice paddies, and discover how Patom engages locals and tourists with its beautiful scenery. The organic food, drinks, and products sold at the cafe and market were wonderful, and I loved seeing how Patom’s campus was built with nature instead of against it! I would like to extend a warm thank you to Patom for sharing your wonderful workplace with us!

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The time I've spent at UNC studying Business and History has strengthened my love for learning, and I’ve always known that I wanted my professional career to promote continuous learning.For that reason, I’m so excited to announce that I'll be joining Visa's 2024 Leadership Associate (VLA) Program at the global headquarters in the Bay Area! Starting in September, I will participate in a two-year rotational program in Financial and Data Analysis, Strategic Thinking, Product Development, and Client Centricity. These four, 6-month rotations will allow me to dive deep into areas within the business I’m most passionate about and will prepare me for a future leadership role at Visa. Huge thank you to the entire Visa team including Lisa Hurst and Jennifer Voss for empowering me throughout this opportunity and showing me all that Visa has to offer personally and professionally! #lifeatvisa

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Thank you to the National Museum of the American Indian at the Smithsonian Institution and my incredible mentors Marielba Alvarez and Sai Muddasanifor giving me the opportunity to research, write, and publish an article about Indian boarding schools and my personal connection to them.Sept 30th was the national day for Truth and Recognition, a day to acknowledge and raise awareness about the impacts of Indian boarding/residential schools in the US and Canada. The essay I wrote during my internship at NMAI this summer was published in the Smithsonian Institution in recognition of this day.I’m so grateful that my extended family has been able to connect with my essay. Though painful and difficult, dialogue surrounding the history and lasting effects of Indian residential schools and the assimilation era are necessary in order to heal. Thank you for learning and listening with me.Check out the essay here: https://lnkd.in/ekDiWXEY

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Just two weeks left! Thank you National Museum of the American Indian for the most memorable summer and introducing me to these lovely people

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