In this insightful episode of A Leader Like Me, we’re joined by Rachelle Henderson, an internal communications consultant with a fascinating background in linguistics and education who shares her inspiring journey from self-reflection to confident leadership.
Rachelle has spent over a decade working at the intersection of communications, research, and technology. She’s led internal and executive communications during times of critical transformation, and more recently has focused on using her skills as a consultant, educator, and storyteller to build inclusive, impactful cultures in the workplace. Her career path is anything but traditional and that’s what makes her perspective so powerful.
This conversation goes beyond job titles and dives deep into the personal values and lived experiences that shape how we lead. Rachelle opens up about a pivotal moment early in her career—following the murder of George Floyd—when she courageously challenged a senior executive’s messaging. Despite being in a junior role, Rachelle spoke up because the message didn’t sit right with her ethics. Her respectful but firm pushback led to a completely revised message and a real moment of reflection for leadership.
This episode is packed with rich insights like these: how to find your voice in difficult environments, why cultural competency assessments can be game-changing for self-awareness, and what inclusion means both interpersonally and systemically. Rachelle shares her belief that inclusion starts with being seen, understood, and valued but also requires us to challenge systems that perpetuate exclusion. Her calm, clear approach to advocacy is both encouraging and realistic for listeners navigating similar spaces.
You’ll also learn more about Rachelle’s journey with A Leader Like Me. She was one of the original members back in 2020 when the program first launched as a response to the global conversations around race, equity, and belonging. As someone navigating a world that often didn’t reflect her experiences, Rachelle found solace and strength in the community and now, she’s giving back by supporting others in their own journeys as part of our new associate consultant team.
Throughout the episode, co-founders Advita Patel and Priya Bates reflect on how Rachelle embodies the values of A Leader Like Me: integrity, empathy, self-awareness, and the confidence to lead from wherever you are. Her story shows that you don’t need a fancy job title to make a difference—you just need a strong sense of purpose and the willingness to act on it.
This episode is for anyone who:
- Is navigating communications in complex or traditional workplaces
- Wants to build their confidence in speaking up and influencing upwards
- Is passionate about creating inclusive cultures but isn’t sure where to start
- Believes leadership is about action, not just position
You’ll walk away with practical strategies for building inclusive habits, including the importance of following diverse thought leaders, engaging with lived experiences different from your own, and starting your journey with curiosity, not perfection.
Whether you’re early in your career or further along, Rachelle’s story is a moving example of how personal reflection and ethical conviction can shift conversations and create change. This is an episode you’ll want to return to—especially on days when leading inclusively feels like an uphill battle.
A Leader Like Me are here to help your organisation thrive. Book an inclusive communication call with us and let us help you solve your diversity, equity and inclusion challenges.
