Leaders Who Have Made an Impact
During the dark times that we live in, it is often hard to see the light at the end of it. If you look around, it almost seems like there is violence in every direction. The violence towards those that are trying to make a difference and for those that they stand in comrades with. Through the years, there have been many inspirational leaders who have used their voices to promote good and justice around them.
Martin Luther King, Jr.
Martin Luther King, Jr. was a prominent figure in the civil rights movement and history. He was a Christian minister who became an activist and visible spokesperson during the Civil Rights Movement in 1955. He used his voice to be an advocate to those around him and to promote the rights and the views of those who would be otherwise unheard. His persuasive “I Have a Dream” speech spoke volumes to many and lit the fire to squelch the oppression that many faced. Martin Luther King Jr. paved the way for many, but there is still work to be done today.
Kobe Bryant
While many may not think of Kobe Bryant as a leader, he was an impeccable sports leader and a leader in philanthropy. Bryant led his team to victory and inspired many that were both on and off of his team. When his team lost to the Celtics in the 2008 NBA finals, Michael Jordan gave him some helpful words of wisdom, stating, “You have to figure out how to connect with each one of those guys and bring the best out in them.” Kobe took that motto to heart and worked to bring his teammates together. He led his team to two back to back titles, one in 2009 and the other in 2010 when they defeated the Orlando Magic, and took back their title from the Celtics in 2010. Not only was he a fantastic team leader, but Bryant was also apart of many philanthropic organizations. He ran the Mamba and Mabacita Foundation, founded by himself and his wife, Vanessa. This group aimed to create a positive impact on sports. Bryant created the foundation when he was at a low point in his career. Even though he has passed, his foundation now ran by his wife, Vanessa continues to do great things.
Both of these people had made tremendous impacts on the world around them before they were taken far too soon. MLK’s daughter and Bryant’s wife continue to do positive things in their names. They are still today, making strides to have an impact on the people and communities around them.
