The Infinite Journey

An Interview with Dr. Sarai Koo

The leadership positions that women occupy and have occupied are innumerable.  The contributions of women in leadership positions are far too many to name or quantify in any expository way.  Gender diversity in leadership brings numerous benefits to organizations, communities and to the global economy.  Women leaders have forged new avenues in business, politics, science, education and so much more in the worldwide community in all facets of our lives.  Their impact can be seen and felt throughout our society and our personal lives.  The call for increased gender diversity in leadership positions is not merely an aspiration for equality but it is an essential stride towards a more inclusive and prosperous society.  In today’s world the importance of having women in leadership positions cannot be overstated. 

I had the wonderful opportunity to interview Sarai Koo, Ph.D.  She is an award-winning executive.  Her expertise covers areas such as human capital, talent and leadership development, culture, diversity, equity and inclusion just to name a few.  Apart from her professional accomplishments, Dr. Koo is the author of the book, “Seoul Food” and has dabbled in acting.  She has appeared in Steven Soderbergh’s American thriller film, “Kimi” (released in February 2022) and worldwide Hyundai commercials, showing her diverse range of talents.

During my conversation with Dr. Koo, I was fascinated by the sheer depth of her experiences and variety in her background.  Her leadership philosophy is deeply grounded in the conception that “every day is a learning experience” and that every day is an opportunity to make a positive impact.  Each day she asks herself, “What did I learn and what changes can I make today?”  Her accumulation of life experiences is because of her insatiable desire to learn and grow and to help others is, for her, an infinite journey.  This journey includes how she and others can become a better human being and having zero regrets for things that she wished that she could have accomplished.

Dr. Koo sees her leadership journey as – “The Infinite Project SPICES™ Journey.”  It involves continuous learning, embracing change and using it as an opportunity for growth, not just for her but for those in her leadership circles.  She serves as an inspiration to the younger generation.  In her world, leadership is about influence and influencing others to find their path and to go after what they are seeking with passion and purpose.  When young women see successful female leaders, they are encouraged to aspire to leadership roles themselves.  This, in turn, helps to break down gender stereotypes and empowers women to pursue their ambitions with more confidence and courage.  This is the journey that Dr. Sarai Koo has forged.

To discharge this formattable task, requires a boundless energy and drive to sustain the mission.  It also requires a dedication to uplifting others along the way powered by an insatiable curiosity about life; a copious hunger for learning and an ample capacity to embrace the human spirit with gusto and self-assurance.  I found all of these qualities in Dr. Sarai Koo and more.  There is an abounding energy that emanates from her and it is with that vigor that propels her in her quest to help others succeed and find their purpose.

So, it is not surprising that when I asked her about her views on leadership, she talked about the importance of effectively leading others to help them grow their full human selves and talents by giving them opportunities to use their skills and abilities. And, most importantly, giving them a safe space to thrive.  Too often women and other historically disadvantaged populations have been denied leadership roles, not because of lack of desire or talent, but because of lack of opportunity to demonstrate their leadership abilities and the contributions that they can make in their respective organizations.

When Dr, Koo started her non-profit organization, MAPS 4 College, she said that this was an example of how she demonstrated her leadership skills in a very profound way. This endeavor was a challenge because Dr. Koo started the organization with “no money, no building and no people.”  With her tenacity and drive, she was able to overcome these challenges and created an organization that helps students to succeed in college and in life by gaining the support and confidence that they need to thrive. MAPS 4 College gives participants space to have a voice and to demonstrate their talents.  It is through this approach that Dr. Koo helped them graduate from college to discover their purpose and work towards their goals. 

When asked, what motivates her to take on the many leading roles that she has, she said that, “I did not see a lot of people actually doing what they say that they are going to do.”  She saw many disappointments and unmet expectations.  Some people say that they want change but they do not really want change or they do not want to do what it takes to actually effectuate the change.  We all know that real change is hard. It takes commitment and perseverance.  Most people talk a good game but aren’t willing to do what it takes to accomplish the changes that they seek.  Dr. Koo saw this as an opportunity to fill these voids of unmet promises and really make a difference by committing to making real changes and sticking to her commitments. Leaders do what they say and are committed to keeping their word.  This is leadership at its core.  Being a good leader is about manifesting a vision through commitment, determination and integrity.

When asked what her strengths were as a leader, she responded that she considers them to be grit, resilience, and her ability to connect with others.  She also cites her being curious and always seeking answers are at the heart of her ambitions. Results from Dr. Koo’s Clifton Strengths™ assessment reveals that she is a connector and strategic thinker that relates with others and is self-assured in her actions.  Leaders that use their strengths to accomplish their goals and objectives are far more likely to have a significant impact on their life and the lives of others.  Dr. Koo clearly has demonstrated how to use her strengths to have an impact by accentuating her connections with other people and harnessing her abilities to extract the best from them.

One of the most important jobs for any leader is how to motivate their team and how to keep them motivated to reach their goals.  Dr. Koo believes that by drawing out the purpose in people’s lives and giving them the skills to grow is key to keeping them motivated.  She sees things in people that they don’t see in themselves.  Her job, as a leader, is to bring out these hidden attributes in her team and pushing them to be their best.  She does this by showing them their hidden talents and helping them to find the courage to display their attributes in ways that they have never considered.

When asked, how have your views on leadership changed over the years, she responded that she has evolved to believe that “anyone can be a leader and it’s about influencing others without manipulation.”  She challenges herself to approach people in a way that will create the best outcome by accentuating their talents and strengths.

One of the most intriguing concepts that Dr. Koo raised was that as a leader, as a woman, and as a person who considers themselves an agent of change, is that she often feels that she is misunderstood by others because she does and sees things differently.  One of the primary advantages of having women in leadership roles is the diverse perspectives they bring to the table.  Women often approach problems and decision from different angles which often leads to more creative and innovative solutions. As it relates to diversity, Dr. Koo believes that without belonging, inclusion, equity, accessibility and diversity, change is stifled.  And, in our rapidly changing world, being open to new ideas and approaches as well as fostering a culture of adaptability are essential.  The importance of having women in leadership roles is not just a matter of equity; it is a matter of practicality, profitability and progress.  The diverse perspectives, enhanced decision-making, improved corporate performance and societal inspiration that women leaders bring are all essential components of a better world.  Embracing and enabling gender diversity in leadership is not just a choice; it is a necessity as it leads us toward a more equitable, innovative and prosperous future.

Dr. Sarai Koo serves as a consummate ambassador of change as a leader dedicated to equity, inclusion and growth for all.  As part of her infinite journey, Dr. Koo runs a program, Project SPICES™, that seeks to transform people from the inside out by uncovering their hidden talents and strengths.  I wish her well as we accompany her on:

“The Infinite Journey.”

Article By: Larry Hammond, Sr.