Issue link: https://nebusinessmedia.uberflip.com/i/1358542
1. "You will never experience success until you experience failure." This is a mantra that my dad, Israel Castiel, would always share with me. I truly believe that our failures are the greatest teachers in our lives as those experiences are the ones that, in many occasions, help us reflect on the purpose and intent of our actions. Our failures are the ones that keep us grounded and humble. 2. "Dignity and justice is a way of being, a way of life." We must always treat ourselves and others with love and respect. It is our duty to honor our existences, value our lived experiences, and actively undo the legacy of racism and oppression. We must do so by amplifying each other voices, thinking, and acting in ways that seek to do better by all; especially those who have been historically dehumanized and oppressed. 3. In the words of James Charlton,"Nothing for us without us." Regardless of your field of work, we must always remember that there is no project, initiative, business, or policy that should be done behind doors and without input of those involved and/or impacted. In order to do better, we must act better, therefore, always including community in a transparent and honest way is a great starting point. 4. "Reflection is key to being a better human being." I consider myself a lifetime learner and one that has many questions and very little answers. I try to constantly ask myself questions about what I am doing, how I am doing it, what I can do better, who I can learn from, and who should come along. Also, I always ask questions because that is the only way I learn and can contribute to collective change and greater good. 5. "Everytime you move a step forward, make sure you are bring someone along with you." Change will only happen if we disrupt business as usual, so I make a point to bring along those who historically are no the ones in power or making decisions. "A good leader is one that is in the trenches with their team." I firmly believe that building with community, motivating others, and getting things done only can happen if as leader I lead by expample rather than simply talking. 6. In the words of Gabby Rivera,"There is no revolution without joy." Make sure to always center joy, laughter, and good company. We can't do good work if we don't take care of ourselves individually and communally. "Best Ideas & Key Philosophies" 2021 Business Leaders of the Year and Hall of Fame Inductees H A L L O F F A M E A W A R D S & Worcester Business Journal Hall of Fame Matilde "Mattie" Castiel, MD, Commissioner of Health and Human Services, City of Worcester SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR A/V PARTNER