The Narratives – Mohamed Miah

Leadership is often painted as a role of power, decision-making, and commanding authority. But for me, leadership is something different—something more personal and intentional. It’s about listening to people, really hearing what they have to say, and understanding their strengths. My approach is to highlight those strengths while minimising the visibility of their weaknesses. After all, no one wants to feel vulnerable, especially in a professional setting.

One of the core principles I follow as a leader is to never embarrass anyone. Whether it’s a challenging conversation or constructive feedback, I’m careful with my words, always trying to soften the message without diluting its importance. I believe you don’t need to be direct or harsh to get your point across. People respond better when they feel respected, and when they know you have their best interests at heart.

Being a leader also means being present—especially in times of challenge. Life happens to everyone. People face personal and professional hurdles, and it’s in those moments of struggle that your presence matters the most. If I’m there for someone in their time of need, I know they’ll go the extra mile when things stabilise. That’s how trust is built. It’s not just about showing up when things are running smoothly; it’s about standing with your team during the storm.

This philosophy of leadership extends beyond the workplace for me. In family life, with my children and my spouse, I apply the same principles. I listen, I offer support, and I try to guide without being overly critical. When people feel supported and understood, they tend to rise to their potential in ways they might not have otherwise.

In the end, leadership is not about being in control; it’s about being there—about lifting others up and making sure they know that they’re not alone. And in doing that, you create a bond that brings out the best in everyone. It’s a cycle of mutual respect and growth, one that fosters a strong, capable team ready to face whatever comes their way.

It’s about guiding, nurturing, and, most importantly, being present. My goal isn’t to be a leader who commands from a pedestal but one who walks alongside, taking everyone along on the journey.

It’s not about hierarchy or power play. It’s about responsibility—whether it’s ensuring the people in my team are supported, or within my family, making sure everyone is taken care of. It’s in showing up, day in and day out, for my wife, for my kids, for my colleagues, and for my faith.

In Islam, leadership is often linked to service. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) exemplified leadership by serving others, by being approachable and kind, even to those who wronged him. That’s something I try to keep in mind. Leading isn’t just about making decisions; it’s about making the right decisions with humility, fairness, and respect.

That’s the kind of leader I strive to be: one who listens, supports, and helps others shine.