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Introverted Women Leaders

The Introverted Leader: How to Harnesses Quiet Power to Lead Authentically

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When we picture a leader, we often imagine someone extroverted — outspoken, always visible, commanding attention. But what if that’s not the only way to lead?

In a powerful conversation on STANDOUT From The Crowd, I interviewed Seyi Kakanfo, a global program leader who has managed multimillion-dollar initiatives with organizations like the UN, Global Affairs Canada, USAID, DFID, and the EU. Despite excelling in these high-stakes environments, Seyi describes herself as 80% introverted.

Her story challenges the myth that only extroverts can lead and offers a fresh perspective for ambitious women who want to make an impact authentically.

 

Do You Have to Be Extroverted to Be a Leader?

The belief that leaders must be extroverts is everywhere — from workplaces to popular culture. But Seyi’s career proves otherwise. She argues that introversion isn’t a barrier, but an advantage when approached with intention.

She shares examples of how her quiet power has shaped global programs and influenced diverse stakeholders. It’s proof that leadership comes in many forms — and the loudest voice in the room isn’t always the most effective.

🎧 Hear her full story in Episode 104 on Website | Spotify | Apple Podcasts

 

What Strengths Do Introverts Bring to Leadership?

Introverts often bring underestimated qualities to leadership:

  • Deep listening that makes others feel heard.

  • Reflection that leads to thoughtful, intentional decisions.

  • Presence that commands respect without noise.

Seyi shows how these strengths are assets, not weaknesses — especially in high-stakes global roles.

👉 Curious about how she applies these strengths in practice? Listen to the episode for her personal strategies. Available on Website | Spotify | Apple Podcasts

 

Realigning with Purpose

Like many ambitious women, Seyi once felt the weight of high demands pulling her away from her deeper purpose. The turning point came when she paused, reflected, and rebuilt rhythms that anchored her work in authenticity and alignment.

Her story is a reminder: ambition without alignment drains you, but ambition with purpose sustains you.

 

Lessons from Mentoring Immigrant Women

Beyond her global leadership career, Seyi has mentored hundreds of immigrant women in Canada. Their resilience and reinvention have shaped her understanding of authentic leadership. These stories echo her own belief: true influence comes from authenticity, not performance.

 

 

Redefining Leadership on Your Own Terms

Seyi Kakanfo’s journey is proof that leadership doesn’t have to look one way. For ambitious women who may feel pressure to “perform extroversion,” her story is both liberating and empowering: you don’t need to be the loudest to be the most impactful.

Quiet power, when rooted in authenticity and purpose, can inspire teams, influence global change, and build trust that outlasts performance.

 

👉 Ready to harnesses your quiet power?