2022 She Leads College series: Five quick questions with Khin Kha
4 March 2022
Our She Leads College Conference is back and we’re ready to bring young women and non-binary youths with an event that will spark their leadership journey and potential!
On Friday 8 April, year 11 and 12 students will have the opportunity to listen to how young leaders strive to be dauntless in their leadership journey.
This week we caught up with She Leads College Conference panellist, Khin Kha, where we asked her five quick questions to about herself, leadership and what she would change if she had the chance to go back to year 11 and 12.
Khin is an IT Project Manager, Cultural Diversity Champion, Videographer, and a nominee for Asia 21 Young Leaders. She co-founded Phoenix Sisters; a volunteer-based network that aims to help people and organisations to understand and cultivate their cultural intelligence through professional development. She also co-founded Kumudra Foundation; a not-for-profit organisation that supports access to healthcare in Myanmar, focusing on disadvantaged members of the community.
What’s one thing you would say to young women and non-binary people trying to start their leadership journey but don’t know where to start?
The most important thing is self-discovery, self-love and self-care.
Spend time learning who you are, what makes you unique, and where do you want to make a difference.
Learn what can you do to contribute or help within your friend group, community, and a wider community. Approach people who have the same vision as you and offer support and build your network of like-minded people.
Who is one person that you admire for their leadership skills and why?
My husband. He used to lecture at the ANU, worked as a consultant at Deloitte and now works for the American embassy. I like his leadership style because no matter how hard the challenge is, he would never speak unkind words. He maintains his professionalism without letting his emotions involved. He doesn’t have an ounce of jealousy. He would help his junior staff to get promotions or provide them with advice, even if the promotion is higher than his position.
What would you like to see change in the next 3-5 years in the leadership space?
Do I need to say it? I would like to see more culturally diverse (kick-ass) women in every industry, please.
What’s a mistake or failure that you have made but in hindsight made you a better leader?
After completing my bachelor’s degree in Australia, I went back to Myanmar to work for my dad for 2 years. It was a failure in every definition, but I learned more about myself and what I am capable of. The causes of failure were culture difference, maturity, lack of experience and the environment.
Would there be anything that you would change if you had the chance to go back to year 11 or year 12?
Focus on yourself and learn what you want to do. Make your dad proud. Don’t worry about boys.
We’re excited to announce more of our speakers for our 2022 She Leads College Conference!
If you’re a young woman or non-binary youth in years 11 or 12, ask your school to register you for the She Leads College Conference on Friday 8 April. Visit the event page for more information.