In just 30 days since joining Panorama Strategy, I’ve learned that driving change takes balance—between listening and leading, bold ideas and quick action.
In my first few weeks, I found myself shifting between deep, reflective conversations about global health to drafting up a few one-pagers for an ongoing climate project. That balance between thoughtful learning and meaningful action has defined my first month. I've had the opportunity to build relationships with my teammates, immerse myself in the work, and contribute to a few exciting initiatives.
Through countless conversations and early project work, I’m starting to understand how Panorama influences real change. Three key lessons have stood out to me.
Diverse perspectives drive innovation
One of my favorite questions to ask during coffee chats was, “What’s your background and how did you find yourself at Panorama?” It didn’t take long to notice a common theme: everyone’s journey to this point is different yet rooted in rich and interesting experiences. I’ve connected with colleagues who have worked across sectors and the globe—from food security, government, sports, and global health. What’s most striking is how these experiences and perspectives coalesce on project teams. In meetings, I hear questions and ideas shaped by global mindsets, cross-sector expertise, and lived experiences. It’s clear to me that without this diversity, the level of innovation and impact would not be possible.
Shared purpose creates clarity and impact
One of the things that initially drew me to Panorama was the breadth of issues we engage with, from public health to climate resilience to gender equity. It was also a point of curiosity – I wondered how Panorama was able to effectively work on so many different issues. As I dove deeper into projects, I realized that while our topics vary, the throughlines are consistent: a commitment to equity, collaboration, and bold action. I’ve seen this alignment reflected both in the projects we choose and in how we approach them - whether we’re advising on improvements for affordable housing or designing a climate education initiative. There is a clarity of purpose that strengthens our impact — enabling us to tackle complex challenges with focus and intention.
Healthy urgency moves work forward
I’ll admit: I’ve never been someone who thought "urgency" could be a useful management tool. Too often, it can create pressure without meaningful outcomes.
But here, I’ve experienced a different kind of urgency — one that’s healthy, motivating, and mission-driven. It shows up in the way teams quickly rally around deliverables, how meetings stay focused and action-oriented, and how teammates readily jump in to move work forward or support one another amidst life’s ups and downs. Our team spans multiple time zones and it's energizing to see how the work seamlessly progresses, handed off from one teammate wrapping up their day to another just beginning, ensuring steady momentum. The issues we work on are complex, pressing, and quickly evolving, and the way we work reflects that reality.
As I look to the months ahead, I’m excited to continue learning from this incredible team, deepen my contributions, and be part of the impact we’re influencing every day. Thirty days in, I’m more certain than ever that driving meaningful change takes balance, boldness, and urgency. I’m grateful to be part of it and even more energized to help shape what’s next.
