Julia Lagahuzere

POWERHOUSE GLOBAL MAGAZINE (PGMAG) INTERVIEW WITH:

JULIA LAGAHUZERE (JL)

PGMAG: Julia, great to have you on today’s interview with Lady Anita. Please briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

JL: A great lover of culture, and opera in particular, I have dedicated my life’s work to the creation, transmission and promotion of lyric art throughout the world. Being nominated "Femme de Culture 2020" was the wonderful recognition of these twenty years in the field. I have the strong belief that culture and creativity can transform the world for the better, improve well-being and balance out social injustice.

PGMAG: How would you describe your style of leadership?

JL: Solid and determined with a focus on kindness and respect. I trust in the strength of team work - being listened to, but more importantly, listening. A leader should illuminate the path forward whilst putting the well-being of the team first, creating a safe space for dialogue and creativity.

PGMAG: As a leader, what would you suggest to someone who is at the point of giving up on their dreams due to life challenges?

JL: Every individual situation is different and the pros and cons need to be weighed up carefully. I don’t believe in following one’s dreams to the detriment of everything else, even though total focus is needed to reach the target. Life is extremely complex and one should rather follow a path to balance, whatever that might be, as opposed to chasing ideals that are often not what we thought they would be in the first place! Sometimes fulfilment comes in other forms.

PGMAG: Please tell us more about ‘Circular Culture’.

JL: Circular Culture is an innovative project linking the performing arts and circular economy values, promoting climate protection and a better future for humanity through creative communication and shared goals. It is inspired by the Renaissance, where art, philosophy and science came together to advance civilization and a new way of seeing the world. This inspiration is pushed further here, for today’s world, with a strong societal engagement structured around the UN Sustainable Development Goals for a better future. Meaningful innovative technology is also an essential part of the mission and we collaborate with corporate partners who want to think differently.

PGMAG: What are some of the steps needed for economic recovery in this challenged time (Covid-19)?

JL:

Countries will have to decide between a local or global approach to recovery, without neglecting the smaller and medium companies, the heart of society that support a strong middle class.

This is also a great chance to consolidate and strengthen Europe. In my opinion an important step should be ensuring that growth leads to a more equitable society.

PGMAG: What were the top three authors that changed your life?

JL: Albert Camus for having the capacity to “illuminate the problem of the human conscience in our time”, whilst offering hope and a certain redemption. James Baldwin for the striking juxtaposition of intimate personal challenges set in a wider complex social setting. Haruki Murakami for his exquisite poetry and sentimental honesty that always leaves me breathless touching the depths of my soul.

PGMAG: What would you say to your younger self?

JL: To try and live more in the present enjoying special moments, as opposed to regretting the past or placing too much faith and hope in an uncertain future.

PGMAG: What are some of the lessons that life has taught you as a leader?

JL: That words and ideas are a good start but not enough. Only through actions leading to concrete measures can we make a real difference. Also inspiration and guidance can come from the unlikeliest sources so always be open to listening and learning!

PGMAG: What was the best advice you have ever received, and by whom?

JL: Always believe in yourself. My mother.

PGMAG: What is your message for world leaders?

JL: Have the compassion, empathy and courage to put the greater good over any personal gain. We need to work in the same direction all together if we want to save our world and create a better future.

PGMAG: Thank you for your time – much appreciated.

JL: Thank you for this wonderful platform allowing leaders to express themselves and share their vision!

PGMAG: Please share your links with us.

JL: www.operaforpeace.org @operaforpeace #operaforpeace #circularculture