Name: Raj Kunwar Pandey

Title: Founder & CEO

Organisation: TEAM7 LPU

I am a passionate and visionary leader dedicated to shaping the future of student engagement and community development. As the Founder and CEO of Team 7, an Student organization based at Lovely Professional University, I have successfully cultivated a culture of creativity, collaboration, and innovation within the student community.

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

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

Cheers,

Jonno White

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

As the Founder and CEO of TEAM 7, the most challenging aspects of leadership include managing diverse perspectives within the team, staying adaptable in a dynamic environment, and fostering effective communication and collaboration.

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

I became a leader by recognizing an opportunity to address a cause I was passionate about during my time as a student. I founded TEAM 7, led by example, built a dedicated team, emphasized open communication and collaboration, and evolved my leadership style based on experiences and feedback. Through dedication and commitment to our mission, I earned the trust of my peers and assumed the role of Founder and CEO.

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

My typical workday involves an early start, beginning with morning routines for personal well-being. I prioritize strategic tasks in the morning, focusing on important decisions and high-priority projects. Afternoons are dedicated to meetings, collaboration, and addressing urgent matters. I reserve evenings for reviewing the day, planning for the next, and ensuring a healthy work-life balance. I aim for sufficient rest to maintain productivity and creativity.

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

A recent leadership lesson I've been reminded of is the importance of vulnerability. I learned that admitting mistakes and showing vulnerability fosters trust and strengthens team dynamics. It humanizes leadership and encourages a culture where team members feel comfortable sharing their challenges and ideas. Embracing vulnerability promotes a more supportive and transparent work environment, ultimately contributing to the team's growth and resilience.

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 had a profound impact on my leadership is "Leaders Eat Last" by Simon Sinek. The book explores the concept of leadership from a perspective of service and selflessness. It emphasizes the importance of creating a culture where leaders prioritize the well-being of their team members.

The book impacted my leadership by reshaping my approach to leading TEAM 7. It inspired me to focus on the needs of my team, fostering a sense of trust, collaboration, and support. By understanding the significance of putting the team first, I began to prioritize the development and satisfaction of each team member. This shift in mindset positively influenced the organizational culture, creating a more engaged and motivated team committed to our collective goals. "Leaders Eat Last" reinforced the idea that effective leadership is rooted in empathy, selflessness, and a genuine concern for the welfare of those you lead.

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

I would advise a young leader to prioritize continuous learning and adaptability. The ability to learn from experiences, stay open to new ideas, and adapt to changing circumstances is crucial for effective leadership. Embrace challenges as opportunities to grow, and never underestimate the value of being a lifelong learner.

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

One meaningful story that stands out is a project undertaken by TEAM 7 that aimed to address a pressing issue in our community. Despite facing numerous challenges and setbacks, the team demonstrated exceptional resilience and creativity to overcome obstacles.

During a critical phase of the project, where it seemed like success was uncertain, the team came together to brainstorm innovative solutions. The collaborative effort, determination, and perseverance shown by each member were truly inspiring. Through collective problem-solving and unwavering commitment, we not only successfully completed the project but also strengthened the bonds within the team.

This experience highlighted the power of a united and resilient team in achieving goals, reinforcing the importance of collaboration, adaptability, and a shared sense of purpose in the face of challenges. It remains a poignant reminder of the positive impact that a dedicated and motivated team can have when working towards a common mission.