How I Serve Through Diversity

There are as many ways to lead as there are to serve. But among the many leadership philosophies, “servant” is a term seldom heard.

I recently sat down with International President Jung-Yul Choi to discuss his leadership philosophy: servant leadership. Despite a long flight from the Republic of Korea the day before, and a long day of meetings ahead, he welcomed me with a question he has asked so many times over the years: How can I help you? 

What does servant leadership mean to you?

Servant leadership is humble leadership. Humility is so important. 

A great leader knows that they succeed only when they support the success of their team. They understand the strengths of their members—and also their needs. Whenever I meet Lions, I always ask, “How can I help you?” I think that’s something that can help everyone.

Encouragement is the greatest motivator. A pat on the back. A few words. Empower the people around you by supporting them. Give them the power to achieve and let them show you how much they are capable of. 

Why is servant leadership important to you?

I became a Lion in 1977—that’s 42 years already! At every step of my journey, in leadership and as a Lion, I see how servant leadership has helped me to achieve my goals.

As a district governor, membership and clubs grew across my district. When the 95th international convention came to Busan in South Korea, it was the largest convention in Korean history.

These are great successes I have been part of. But it was only by servant leadership—only by supporting and encouraging my team—that so much was accomplished.

How does your message of “We Serve through Diversity” apply to leadership?

Our world is incredible in its diversity. We are all beautiful and unique in our experiences, abilities and culture. But we cannot let our differences divide us. 

Top to bottom—that’s how servant leadership works.

As Lions, we share the same mission. To achieve our mission we must embrace diversity. To achieve our true potential as Lions, we must embrace it. I truly believe that diversity is our greatest strength.


Why do you think that ongoing training and professional development is important for Lions?

We are the greatest volunteer organization in the world. And why? Because of our members and their clubs. Who grows our membership? Club members. Who serves our communities? Clubs.

And how do we keep our members happy and our clubs healthy? Strong leadership.

In my experience, when someone with training becomes a leader there’s a big difference. When we train Lions, we help them find the tools they need. We help them develop the unique skills that it takes to be a service leader. And then something special happens.

They become even more service-minded. They become even more willing to participate in service activities. They become even better Lions who are ready to lead their clubs and our communities, our districts and our world.

What are some practical ways to start becoming a servant leader today?

Top to bottom—that’s how servant leadership works.

It means I support my district governors. It means that district governors support their club presidents. It means that club presidents support their members. If we can do this at all level of Lions, I believe that we will see extraordinary results in our membership and leadership.

And small things matter too. Speak kindly. Give encouragement. Recognize accomplishments. We all need it.

As your international president, wherever I go, I’m there to serve you. I’m going to do everything I can to help you succeed.

Learn more about servant leadership with the Lions Learning Center, and discover new ways to serve your club and community. Explore online courses to help you take your leadership and service to the next level, right in the comfort of your home.
 

Kevin Jeong is the strategic communications specialist for Lions Clubs International.