Leading Purpose, Inclusion, and Innovation: My Odyssey as a Student Ambassador of Purpose Lab

Every session of Purpose Lab is always transformative and a masterclass about an organisation that leads with innovation, vision, inclusion, and is purpose-driven. From engineering firms to leaders in the energy sector, from rail operators to social enterprises, every encounter has deepened my understanding of how business can be both socially transformative and commercially successful. 

With Curtins, the evolving role of hybrid working was illuminated, demonstrating how collaboration can be powered by flexibility while sustaining human connection at its core. The conversation on dynamic work environments enclosed them as hubs for belonging, connection and innovation, not just places of presence.   

Equiniti focused on the concealed architecture of being financially fair as a reminder of having a retirement with dignity, accessible pensions, and fairness in money management, which are fundamental pillars of society. This underscored the impact of upholding honor in turning milestones of life. This made me see finances as trust in actions and not just some transactions. 

The Wise group reaffirmed a lens of transformation on the power of social enterprise, not just for addressing immediate needs, but where sustainability and mission converge to re-engineer barriers of the system that create inequality, by reinforcing the power of positioning, language, and storytelling in fostering significant societal improvements. 

While Northern Gas Networks offered clarity about being a true inclusive employer by demonstrating how inclusion and diversity are more than just being valued, they are strategic imperatives for sustainable growth. A true Inclusive employer measures success in belonging, not numbers, reflects its community, and listens to underrepresented voices.  

The transforming insights I gained from these sessions have been a catalyst in sharpening my perspective that true purpose-led leadership is not about isolated initiative but about systemic design, and this also shaped the leader I aspire to be and contribute to societies and industries on a global level by leading with compassion, innovation, clarity, inclusion, inseparable impact, and strategic intent.   

By Gursimran Kaur - Purpose Lab student ambassador