The notion of leadership can often feel distant, reserved for managers, directors, or the person standing behind a podium at the front of the room. But leadership isn’t confined to titles or positions—it’s a state of mind and a call to action. Imagine being suddenly thrust into a leadership role. What would you say? How would you respond?

This scenario brings us to the powerful concept of Leading from Any Chair, popularized by Benjamin Zander, the conductor of the Boston Philharmonic Orchestra. It asserts that leadership is not about positions but about how each individual can influence their environment—no matter where they sit or stand. At its core, this principle teaches us that leadership is both a skill to cultivate and a responsibility to seize, regardless of whether you’re officially “in charge.”

Leading from Any Chair: The Essence of Everyday Leadership

Leadership isn’t limited to the captain of the ship or the manager in the boardroom. Anyone has the power to lead at any moment—whether you’re a junior engineer, a teacher’s assistant, a volunteer, or part of a larger system like an orchestra. When we embrace this mindset, we not only empower ourselves but also inspire others to lead by example.

• Leadership as Influence: Leadership in this sense is about your impact on others’ actions—your words, tone, ideas, and example. You don’t need a title to positively shape outcomes.
• Empowerment Over Authority: True leadership recognizes that authority is not required to create momentum. It’s about contributing meaningfully and stepping up when it matters most, even when it’s unexpected.

What to Say When Called Upon to Lead

If you’re unexpectedly called to lead, your first words matter. These moments are less about having the perfect answer and more about setting the right tone to galvanize action. Here are some principles you can lean into:

1. Acknowledge the Situation:
   Leadership starts with honesty. Acknowledge what’s happening and be transparent about the stakes.
   “We didn’t plan for this moment, but we have the opportunity now to come together and make progress.”
2. Create Shared Purpose:
   People rally around clarity and unity. Define or remind the group of a common goal.
   “Our mission here is clear—let’s focus on what we can control and move forward.”
3. Involve Others:
   No leader has all the answers. Engage others to build consensus and momentum.
   “I don’t have all the answers, but I know we can figure this out together. What do you think?”
4. Stay Calm and Decisive:
   When things feel chaotic, people look to those who remain steady. Be calm but decisive.
   “Let’s start by breaking this down. Here’s our first step.”
5. Encourage Action, Not Perfection:
   Leadership isn’t about doing everything perfectly but about getting things moving.
   “It doesn’t have to be perfect, but it needs to get done. Let’s learn as we go.”

The Art of Teaching Yourself (and Others) to Lead

Leading from any chair isn’t just about stepping up in the moment—it’s about building the mindset and skills to do so consistently. Here are some ways to cultivate leadership in yourself and others:

1. Model Leadership in Small Ways:
   Take initiative in everyday situations—offer to coordinate a meeting, propose new ideas, or give constructive feedback. Small acts build leadership muscle.
2. Empower Others to Lead:
   If you’re in a leadership role, create space for your team to contribute and take ownership. Ask: “What would you do in this situation?” or “How can I support your ideas?”
3. Seek Opportunities for Growth:
   Leadership comes from experience, not just knowledge. Push yourself beyond your comfort zone. Volunteer for new challenges, take the lead on a small project, or facilitate a team discussion.
4. Develop Emotional Intelligence:
   Leaders from any seat need to recognize when others need guidance, encouragement, or simply the chance to shine. Listen actively and be empathetic in your interactions.
5. Learn from Failure:
   Leadership involves risk. Not every attempt will succeed, but failure is one of the greatest teachers. The key is reflecting, learning, and adjusting so you’re ready when the next opportunity arises.

Redefining Leadership for Today’s World

In modern workplaces, the old top-down leadership model is giving way to more collaborative, fluid structures. This shift demands that every team member be willing and able to lead—even when they least expect it. By embracing the mindset of leading from any chair, we create more resilient, adaptive organizations where initiative is valued, and everyone takes ownership of outcomes.

Whether in life, work, or a moment of crisis, the opportunity to lead is always around us. You may not have the official title or the traditional authority, but the impact you can have is no less meaningful.

So, what would you say if suddenly called to lead? You’d say exactly what the moment needs. Because leadership isn’t about always knowing what to do—it’s about being willing to act, guide, and inspire when the time comes.

Conclusion: Leadership Starts Where You Sit

Leading from any chair teaches us that leadership is not about position but about participation. It’s about recognizing that the power to influence, guide, and inspire exists within each of us, no matter where we are. The next time you find yourself in a situation where leadership is needed—whether it’s a small project, a conversation, or a critical decision—step up. Speak with intention, invite others to contribute, and get things moving.

Because in the end, leadership is less about titles and more about actions.

This November, the BlackStars Experience Summit in New York City promises to be a transformative event, celebrating Black leadership, innovation, and excellence. With over 2,000 professionals, 60 speakers, and 100 companies in attendance, the summit offers a unique platform for networking, career development, and collaboration across various industries, including tech, finance, and entrepreneurship.

The summit spans four days, from November 6-9, 2024, packed with panels, workshops, talent recruitment sessions, and high-profile keynotes. Events like fireside chats with global leaders, discussions on allyship and diversity, and deep dives into emerging markets create the perfect atmosphere for learning and exchanging ideas. A true highlight of the summit will be the BlackStars Awards Gala, where industry trailblazers will be recognized for their achievements and impact.

Meet Me at the Morgan Stanley Booth

I’m thrilled to share that I plan to be attending this remarkable event as part of the Morgan Stanley booth. This booth will serve as a hub of innovation, where we’ll be showcasing the latest advancements in technology and their applications across the finance industry. If you are curious about where the future is heading or eager to learn how cutting-edge tools are shaping businesses today, stop by to chat! I’m looking forward to connecting with like-minded professionals, sharing insights, and engaging in thought-provoking conversations about technological developments.

Whether you’re a technologist, entrepreneur, or simply passionate about the latest innovations, this is the perfect opportunity to network and learn from some of the brightest minds leading today’s progress. The summit is designed not only to foster professional growth but also to encourage collaborations that could spark new ventures and ideas.

Join the Celebration of Excellence

The BlackStars Experience is more than just a conference—it’s a celebration of Black talent and a testament to the power of connection. With sessions on everything from financial planning and investment opportunities in Africa and the Caribbean to diversifying the tech landscape, this summit offers something valuable for everyone.

I believe that great conversations spark great ideas, and I can’t wait to connect with attendees at the summit. If you’re planning to attend, let’s meet at the Morgan Stanley booth to explore how technology is driving change and building the future.

Make sure to register for the event and explore the full agenda at the BlackStars Experience website: BlackStars Experience.

Looking forward to meeting you there! Let’s collaborate, inspire, and grow together.

Mark your calendars! .NET Conf is just around the corner, and this year promises to be packed with exciting announcements and insights for developers across the board. One session that should be on every WPF developer’s radar is “Empowering WPF Developers: A Journey Through .NET 9 and the Road Ahead” by Pankaj Chaurasia. If you’re passionate about creating high-performance, modern desktop applications, this talk is one you simply can’t miss.

Dive into .NET 9’s Game-Changing Features for WPF

.NET 9 is bringing new life to WPF (Windows Presentation Foundation) applications, introducing enhancements that align with the sleek and modern design language of Windows 11. In this session, Pankaj Chaurasia will guide attendees through these advancements and demonstrate how to leverage them to transform your applications.

Highlights include:

• The New Fluent Theme: Experience the native Windows 11 look and feel in WPF applications, with built-in support for Light/Dark modes and system accent colors. This will give your apps a contemporary touch, enhancing user engagement through seamless design integration.
• Hyphen-Based Ligature Support: Typography plays a key role in user interfaces, and the introduction of hyphen-based ligatures will enable developers to create polished, aesthetically pleasing text layouts effortlessly.

A Glimpse Beyond .NET 10

The journey doesn’t stop with .NET 9. One of the session’s most exciting aspects is a sneak peek into the roadmap beyond .NET 10. Pankaj will reveal the top-requested features that the community has been eagerly anticipating, hinting at how Microsoft is continuing to invest in WPF’s evolution. Whether it’s improved rendering, better tooling, or extended integration with future technologies, this session will give developers a vision of what’s to come.

Who Should Attend?

This session caters to both seasoned WPF developers and those just starting their journey with the platform. Whether you’re maintaining legacy WPF applications or building cutting-edge desktop apps, the insights provided will equip you with tools and knowledge to stay ahead in an ever-changing landscape.

Why Attend .NET Conf 2024?

.NET Conf is a free, virtual developer event packed with sessions on the latest technologies and frameworks across the .NET ecosystem. It’s an opportunity to:

• Connect with experts and developers from around the world.
• Learn about the latest trends and updates across .NET, C#, Azure, and beyond.
• Apply the knowledge from live demos, code samples, and real-world use cases shared throughout the event.

If you’re passionate about building visually stunning and powerful desktop applications, this session will give you the tools and insights needed to take your WPF apps to the next level.

Don’t miss out—register now, mark the date, and be ready to dive into the future of WPF at .NET Conf 2024!

I am thrilled to share that starting this Monday, I will be officially joining Konectin Inc ‘s mentor group – #KOMP ! This new chapter provides an incredible opportunity to connect with, support, and guide individuals from Africa navigating their career journeys. As a mentor, my focus will be on equipping mentees with the tools, insights, and encouragement needed to overcome challenges and actualize their professional dreams.

Why Mentorship Matters in Today’s Job Market

In a fast-paced, evolving job market, the role of mentorship is more essential than ever. Whether you’re just starting your career, switching industries, or striving for growth within your field, the right guidance can make all the difference. Mentors offer not only knowledge and industry insights but also the emotional and strategic support to navigate complexities and opportunities.

Konectin’s mission to simplify the career sphere aligns perfectly with my passion for fostering talent and creating inclusive growth spaces. With the platform’s strong focus on customer obsession, transparency, accountability, teamwork, and innovation, I am confident that together we can unlock potential and guide professionals toward their career aspirations.

What I Look Forward to as a Mentor at Konectin

– Empowering mentees: Helping individuals identify and achieve their goals by offering actionable advice tailored to their unique journeys.

– Building meaningful connections: Engaging with mentees to create an environment of trust, transparency, and open communication.

– Learning through collaboration: Mentorship is a two-way street, and I look forward to gaining new perspectives from the mentees I’ll work with.

– Navigating ambiguity: Assisting individuals to thrive in uncertain situations, turning challenges into opportunities.

– Exploring new ideas: Encouraging mentees to embrace innovation and adopt creative problem-solving approaches.

How Mentorship at Konectin Stands Out

Konectin offers a dynamic, supportive platform that fosters collaboration between mentors and mentees. With transparency and teamwork at the forefront, mentoring at Konectin is designed to build a bridge between aspiring professionals and established experts. I am particularly excited about working alongside like-minded mentors who share the same passion for career growth, innovation, and development.

Together, we will explore emerging trends, tackle challenges, and help individuals unlock the next stage of their professional lives. Whether it’s career advice, networking tips, or leadership insights, I look forward to contributing to this vibrant community.

Join Us on This Journey

If you are looking for guidance or support in your career, I invite you to explore the Konectin platform. Mentorship is not just about finding solutions—it’s about learning, evolving, and realizing potential. I’m grateful to Konectin for this opportunity and excited to start this journey of growth, impact, and shared success.

Let’s connect, collaborate, and create meaningful change together. See you on Monday!

David Fincher’s 1997 thriller The Game is more than just a psychological rollercoaster; it’s a fascinating exploration of human nature. The film’s protagonist, Nicholas Van Orton, played by Michael Douglas, is a wealthy investment banker whose life is precise, controlled, and devoid of emotional connection. His participation in a life-altering “game” reveals aspects of his personality and psychology that reflect universal truths about human nature—our need for control, fear of vulnerability, and the desire for meaning.

1. Control vs. Chaos

Nicholas Van Orton begins as a man who embodies control. His life is meticulously ordered, and he thrives on this sense of command over his world. When the game begins, however, everything that defines his structured reality is upended. The film brilliantly portrays how human beings crave control, not just over their environment but over the trajectory of their lives.

As Nicholas loses control, his reaction shifts from frustration to despair, echoing the universal fear of losing power. We can all relate to moments when the unexpected disrupts our carefully laid plans, leaving us feeling helpless. The film suggests that human nature is deeply intertwined with this struggle between control and chaos—and that true growth often happens when we’re forced to confront chaos head-on.

2. The Fear of Vulnerability

Nicholas is emotionally detached, a man who avoids vulnerability at all costs. His rigid demeanor shields him from emotional connection, but also from the richness of life. The game dismantles this protective barrier, forcing him into situations where his wealth, status, and intellect are powerless.

This exposure of his weaknesses mirrors a universal truth: vulnerability is an inherent part of the human condition, yet we fear it. We construct emotional armor to protect ourselves, often at the expense of deeper relationships and authentic experiences. The Game serves as a stark reminder that, while vulnerability is uncomfortable, it is also where human connection and personal growth lie.

3. The Search for Meaning

At its core, The Game is a metaphor for the search for meaning in life. As Nicholas navigates the unpredictable challenges, he begins to question not just the game, but his own existence. The film cleverly toys with the idea that life itself can feel like a game, with moments of absurdity, unpredictability, and a lack of clear direction.

This resonates with a broader existential struggle many face: the desire to find purpose. Nicholas’s journey mirrors our own attempts to find significance in the chaos of life. The game’s intensity pushes him to the edge, where he must confront his own mortality and rediscover the value of relationships, empathy, and compassion—elements he had neglected in his controlled existence.

4. Trust and Betrayal

Throughout the film, Nicholas grapples with trust. Every character he encounters seems to be either a player in the game or a manipulator, leading him to question the authenticity of his relationships. This constant questioning of others’ intentions speaks to a fundamental aspect of human nature—the fragility of trust.

In our own lives, trust is often hard-earned and easily shattered. Nicholas’s evolving relationships throughout the film demonstrate how trust is integral to our social fabric but also how paranoia and self-preservation can erode it. The film suggests that while trust can make us vulnerable, it is also essential for meaningful connections.

5. Transformation Through Adversity

By the film’s conclusion, Nicholas has undergone a profound transformation. What begins as a carefully orchestrated game of psychological torture becomes a path toward self-awareness and emotional rebirth. His near-death experience at the end of the game functions as a symbolic death and rebirth, a cleansing of his old, disconnected self.

This mirrors a classic human experience: transformation through adversity. Many of us undergo periods of intense hardship or existential questioning that force us to reevaluate our lives, priorities, and relationships. Just as Nicholas emerges from the game with a newfound appreciation for life, the film suggests that it is only through adversity that we can truly grow and evolve.

Conclusion: The Game as a Reflection of Us All

Watching The Game is a visceral reminder of the complexities of human nature. Nicholas’s journey from control to chaos, from emotional detachment to vulnerability, and from isolation to connection reflects universal truths about our own lives. The film teaches us that to truly understand ourselves, we must confront the very things we fear most—chaos, vulnerability, and meaninglessness.

Ultimately, The Game is more than a psychological thriller. It is an allegory for the human condition, urging us to let go of our need for control, embrace our vulnerability, and find meaning in the relationships and experiences that shape us. In doing so, it offers a profound understanding of what it means to be human.

The Microsoft Imagine Cup, now in its 23rd year, stands as the world’s premier global technology startup competition exclusively for student founders. This year’s focus? AI-powered solutions built on the Microsoft Cloud. If you’re a student with a game-changing idea that harnesses the power of AI, the Imagine Cup offers you the perfect stage to transform that idea into a market-ready startup.

Participants in the Imagine Cup are not only challenged to innovate—they are empowered. Teams gain free access to cutting-edge AI technologies, including Azure AI services, along with industry-leading models like OpenAI GPT-4. Throughout the competition, participants receive expert coaching and mentorship, ensuring their ideas are both technically sound and business-ready. Networking opportunities with global industry leaders are another key benefit, opening doors for recognition and collaboration.

The competition doesn’t stop at innovation; it builds pathways to real-world impact. Finalists get the chance to present their solutions on a global stage, with winning teams receiving cash prizes and an exclusive mentoring session with Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella. For those looking to make an impact through AI, the Imagine Cup provides a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

Key Deadlines:

• Optional idea submission by October 31, 2024, for early feedback.
• MVP (Minimum Viable Product) submission by January 22, 2025.

This competition has consistently proven to be a launchpad for innovative ideas that tackle real-world challenges. The 2025 edition promises even more excitement, opportunity, and global collaboration. Dream it. Build it. Live it.

Ready to innovate? Register now for the 2025 Imagine Cup and start building the future!

For more details, visit the Imagine Cup website!

International Suit Up Day, popularized by fans of How I Met Your Mother and Barney Stinson’s iconic line, “Suit up!” was once a humorous nod to dressing sharply, no matter the occasion. Celebrated each October 13th (eg, today), this day encourages people to don their best suits and channel a sense of confidence and professionalism. But as the nature of work has shifted dramatically, it’s worth asking: does suiting up still make sense in today’s evolving work landscape?

The Shift in Work Culture

In the past few years, particularly accelerated by the pandemic, the workplace has undergone seismic changes. Remote work, hybrid schedules, and more casual office environments have become the norm for many industries. With fewer face-to-face meetings and more virtual interactions, the emphasis on formal attire has given way to comfort and practicality. Today, tech CEOs deliver keynotes in hoodies, and boardroom meetings can just as easily take place in home offices or co-working spaces, often with people sporting jeans and T-shirts.

The casualization of work attire isn’t just a practical response to changing environments; it reflects deeper shifts in corporate culture. Many organizations now prioritize results and innovation over adherence to traditional dress codes. This flexibility allows employees to express themselves more freely and focus on their work, rather than adhering to rigid fashion expectations. The “suit” in this context feels almost like a relic from another era, a symbol of a past where image often outweighed substance.

The Enduring Power of the Suit

However, there’s no denying the psychological effect that a suit can have. The ritual of putting on a suit still signals formality, professionalism, and preparedness. It can change not only how others perceive you but how you perceive yourself. For some, dressing up boosts confidence, serves as a mental switch from casual to professional, and enhances a sense of readiness, especially for important meetings or presentations.

There’s also the argument for maintaining professionalism in virtual environments. Video calls have shrunk the gap between personal and professional spaces, but suiting up—at least from the waist up—still carries symbolic weight. In a world where distractions abound, dressing sharply might remind others that despite the casual setting, you mean business.

Does Suiting Up Still Matter?

So, does International Suit Up Day hold relevance in this era of remote work, casual offices, and blurred work-life boundaries? The answer may depend on your industry, your personal style, and how you see the connection between clothing and performance.

For those working in finance, law, or corporate leadership, the suit still carries weight, signaling respect and authority. On the other hand, tech and creative fields have embraced a more laid-back approach. For many, the freedom to choose between a suit or something more comfortable reflects the broader cultural shift away from rigid expectations and toward a more inclusive, adaptable workplace.

Suiting Up: A Choice, Not a Requirement

International Suit Up Day, then, might not be about having to wear a suit but about choosing to wear one. It could serve as a celebration of choice—whether you’re embracing the suit or opting for something more fitting to your daily routine. In a world where people are redefining how they work and where they work, clothing becomes another area for self-expression and individuality.

So, as we approach International Suit Up Day, ask yourself: does putting on a suit make you feel empowered? Does it help you shift into a professional mindset? Or does it feel like a vestige of a different time? Whatever your answer, the beauty of today’s workplace is that you can choose.

Together with Sergio, Gorka and Ruslan, with the guidance from Hilary, I participated in a Quantum Computing Panel at the recent Open Source in Finance Forum. The panel discussed the potential and challenges of quantum computing in financial services, emphasizing the need for strategic investment and collaboration.

Some of the highlights of the session are:

• 💻 Quantum computing is a new frontier, not yet fully understood.
• 🔍 It can solve specific problems more efficiently than traditional computing.
• 🔗 Collaboration and open standards are crucial for industry advancement.
• 🔐 Quantum key distribution offers solutions for cryptography challenges.
• 📈 Immediate advantages in optimization are on the horizon.
• 🌍 Organizations must invest now to stay competitive in the future.
• ⏳ Progress in quantum technology is accelerating faster than expected.

Some of the key insights I found important to mention:

• 🌟 Emerging Technology: Quantum computing represents a significant leap in computational power, capable of addressing complex problems traditional computers cannot efficiently solve. Its full potential is still unfolding, indicating a transformative future for industries like finance.
• 🤝 Collaboration is Key: Open-source collaboration and shared standards among companies are vital for developing quantum technologies efficiently. This collective approach can lead to faster advancements and broader adoption across sectors.
• 🔒 Cryptographic Implications: Quantum computers could potentially disrupt current encryption methods, necessitating a shift towards post-quantum cryptography and quantum key distribution to safeguard sensitive data.
• 📊 Optimization Opportunities: Quantum computing is expected to revolutionize optimization processes, providing significant improvements in efficiency for financial models and analyses, thus enhancing decision-making and profitability.
• 🛠️ Talent Development: Building expertise in quantum computing is essential. Organizations must invest in training programs and attract talent with interdisciplinary knowledge, merging quantum physics, algorithm development, and industry-specific applications.
• 🚀 Strategic Investment: Companies should begin investing in quantum technologies now, as long-term benefits will outweigh initial costs. Being proactive will ensure readiness when quantum computing becomes mainstream.
• ⏰ Accelerating Progress: The timeline for quantum advancements is shrinking, with significant progress made recently. Organizations need to adapt quickly to leverage these innovations effectively and maintain a competitive edge.

Please do enjoy watching it as much as we enjoyed paneling in it 🙂

As multiple people joked around this – FDC3 been an integral part of the OSFF conferences since the inception of it – and this year wasn’t different either. Next to our official announcement and multiple sessions we participated in/on around FDC3, there been many other announcements and sessions around the topic, so let me try to collate some of these.

“Tell me and I forget. Teach me and I remember. Involve me and I learn.“

This timeless quote, often attributed to Benjamin Franklin, captures the essence of how learning and innovation are fostered through active participation. Nowhere is this more relevant than in the realm of moonshot projects, hackathons, and cross-division collaborations that push the boundaries of what’s possible in organizations. In these environments, the act of involvement is not just beneficial—it’s essential for meaningful innovation.

Why Cross-Division Collaboration is Crucial for Moonshot Projects

Moonshot projects, by definition, aim for breakthrough innovation that can redefine industries or solve seemingly impossible challenges. These projects cannot thrive in silos, where ideas and expertise are limited to a single perspective. Cross-division collaboration brings diverse skills, perspectives, and experiences into one room, creating a fertile ground for innovative solutions.

However, the key to unlocking the full potential of such collaborations is to move beyond simply telling or teaching different teams about each other’s work. It’s not enough for one division to explain their challenges and for another to passively listen or offer advice. The real magic happens when everyone is actively involved in co-creating solutions, learning from each other’s expertise, and adapting their thinking in real-time.

When engineers, product designers, marketers, and business strategists come together, they don’t just exchange ideas—they build on each other’s contributions. The engineers might come up with a prototype, but it’s the marketers who can identify the customer need it will address, and the strategists who can see how to scale it. Every participant’s unique lens is essential, but true innovation emerges when these lenses overlap and create something new.

The Power of Hackathons: Learning Through Active Participation

Hackathons are a perfect manifestation of the “involve me and I learn” philosophy. They are fast-paced, problem-solving events where participants from various backgrounds work intensively to develop new ideas and solutions. Hackathons, by design, are immersive—they are about doing, not just talking or listening. This active involvement fosters deeper learning and collaboration.

During a hackathon, participants don’t just learn from a theoretical standpoint. They experience the challenges and opportunities firsthand. This kind of active involvement forces them to move beyond their comfort zones, learn new skills on the fly, and approach problems from multiple angles. The urgency of the event compels them to test ideas, iterate quickly, and innovate in ways they might never have thought possible in their day-to-day roles.

In cross-division hackathons, the involvement of participants from different areas of the company leads to the exchange of domain-specific knowledge. Engineers might learn about customer-facing challenges from sales teams, while business strategists might learn about the constraints and possibilities of new technologies from developers. The learning is deep, impactful, and—most importantly—actionable.

How Active Involvement Drives Innovation

Innovation is not a passive activity. It requires deep engagement, hands-on experimentation, and continuous iteration. By involving people from different divisions in moonshot projects and hackathons, organizations can foster a culture where everyone is learning from each other and contributing to collective progress.

Cross-division collaboration does more than just pool resources; it enables a deeper understanding of the organization’s broader goals. When individuals are involved in creating solutions, they gain insights into how different parts of the organization function. This level of involvement ensures that the innovation generated is not only technically feasible but also aligned with business objectives, customer needs, and market realities.

Furthermore, active involvement democratizes innovation. When people from all levels and divisions contribute, the ideas generated are not limited to a select few. Instead, innovation becomes a shared responsibility and opportunity across the organization.

Fostering a Culture of Continuous Involvement

For organizations aiming to foster innovation through moonshot projects or hackathons, the goal should be to create a culture of continuous involvement. Rather than seeing collaboration as a one-time event, it should become the default way of working. This means creating ongoing opportunities for cross-division collaboration, embedding hackathons and sprints into the workflow, and encouraging teams to take ownership of the innovations they help create.

Leaders can nurture this culture by actively involving employees in decision-making processes and encouraging them to work across traditional boundaries. By offering platforms for collaboration—whether physical hackathons, digital idea labs, or shared innovation challenges—they ensure that involvement isn’t just a momentary event but a sustained practice.

Conclusion

“Tell me and I forget. Teach me and I remember. Involve me and I learn.” This quote serves as a powerful reminder that true innovation stems from involvement. In moonshot projects and hackathons, cross-division collaboration moves teams from passive knowledge transfer to active, immersive learning. Through involvement, individuals learn, grow, and create. More importantly, organizations that embrace this approach can unlock unprecedented innovation, solving complex challenges and opening new pathways to success.

For companies looking to achieve breakthrough innovation, the lesson is clear: invite more people to the table, get them involved, and watch how their participation leads to transformative results.