Name: Bakwatanisa Jordan

Title: Pharmacist

Organisation: Neat Cancer Foundation

Passionate Pharmacist and Oncology Aficionado, dedicated leader in the field. Committed to research, a God-fearing Christian, and proud Manchester United fan ⚽. Embracing life's journey with faith 🙏.

Thank you to the 2,000 leaders who’ve generously done the 7 Questions on Leadership!

I hope Bakwatanisa's answers will encourage you in your leadership journey. Enjoy!

Cheers,

Jonno White

1. What have you found most challenging as a leader?

Navigating and resolving team conflicts has been a significant challenge. Balancing diverse perspectives and fostering collaboration requires constant attention and effective communication.

2. How did you become a leader? Can you please briefly tell the story?

Embarking on my leadership journey, I initially served as the guild speaker at Mbarara University of Science and Technology, where I cultivated effective communication and decision-making skills. This experience fueled my desire to lead, prompting me to take the helm of the Ntare School Old Students Association at MUST. Steering a diverse group of individuals, I honed my organizational prowess and ability to foster unity. Now, as I pursue a master's degree in medical law and ethics, I reflect on the transformative nature of these leadership roles. Each opportunity has been a stepping stone, shaping me into a resilient and strategic leader. Embracing challenges with determination, I've learned to navigate complexities and inspire collaborative efforts. This multifaceted journey has not only strengthened my leadership acumen but has also instilled in me a profound passion for driving positive change.

3. How do you structure your work days from waking up to going to sleep?

Beginning my day at 6:00 AM, I kick off with a nutritious breakfast to fuel my energy. Mornings are dedicated to crucial tasks, leveraging peak focus to delve into oncology research or patient care strategies. By mid-morning, I schedule collaborative discussions and meetings to foster interdisciplinary teamwork. Afternoons are a mix of focused work on treatment plans, engaging with patients, and staying abreast of advancements in oncological pharmacy. Short breaks are crucial, allowing for mental recharge. Evenings involve reviewing patient cases, addressing any urgent matters, and planning for the next day's consultations. Balancing work and personal life, I conclude my day around 8:00 PM. This leaves time for relaxation, family, and perhaps some continued learning in the field. Prioritizing a restful night, I aim to be in bed by 10:00 PM, ensuring I'm ready to face the challenges of a new day in the dynamic field of oncology pharmacy.

4. What's a recent leadership lesson you've learned for the first time or been reminded of?

Recently, I've been reminded of the importance of active listening in leadership. Understanding that leadership is not just about directing but also about genuinely comprehending the perspectives of team members. This lesson has reinforced the value of fostering open communication and creating an inclusive environment where everyone's insights are acknowledged and considered.

5. What's one book that has had a profound impact on your leadership so far? Can you please briefly tell the story of how that book impacted your leadership?

One book that has profoundly impacted my leadership is "Leaders Eat Last" by Simon Sinek. This insightful read emphasizes the significance of servant leadership and creating a culture of trust within a team. It has influenced my approach by reinforcing the idea that prioritizing the well-being of the team ultimately leads to greater collective success. This perspective has shaped how I prioritize team dynamics, fostering a more collaborative and supportive work environment.

6. If you could only give one piece of advice to a young leader, what would you say to them?

Embrace continuous learning and humility. As a young leader, recognize that leadership is an evolving journey. Stay curious, be open to feedback, and never underestimate the power of continuous improvement. Admitting when you don't have all the answers fosters growth, both for yourself and your team.

7. What is one meaningful story that comes to mind from your time as a leader, so far?

One meaningful leadership story that comes to mind is about a challenging project where the team faced unforeseen obstacles. Instead of pointing fingers, we gathered together, brainstormed solutions, and rallied as a united front. The experience highlighted the strength of collaborative problem-solving and the importance of fostering a resilient team spirit even in the face of adversity.