LEADING WITH MERAKI ANDVIBRANCE

LEADING WITH MERAKI AND VIBRANCE

‘The function of leadership istoproduce more leaders, notmore followers’.

The words of American activist, Ralph Nader, could not hold more truth and are echoed in thelegacy left by the Ruyton students who have led before us. Each leader had their distinctive leadership qualities and had a profound impact on those of us who looked up to them, instilling in us that same unwavering passion for service. This year, the Class of 2022 have pledged to lead with Meraki and Vibrance. Our first word, albeit unconventional, stood out to us. Meraki,amodern Greek word, is defined as doing something with passion, devotion and absolute attention. A notable feature of this word is that, due to its origin, meraki is almost impossible to translate directly. It can only be felt and understood through actions. Thisnotion is represented not only by our year level but our school, with the bonds within Ruyton being difficult to describe, but easily perceived. The Class of 2022 has proven repeatedly through their active involvement in sport, music, drama and the broader community that service to Ruyton is a labour of love, thus proving that the most meaningful aspect of leadership is not merit, but rather the fidelity towards one’s duty. Our second word, vibrance, reflects a year level full of energy and life. Despite the challenges that emerged during the last two years, we rose above adversity with collective positivity that radiated through the year level. Our unity was reflected through the sequin leggings at House events, stomps in the School Song, and dynamic Spirit days; all attesting to our vibrant School community. Each Year 12 student displays outstanding personal qualities that collectively create a sense of solidarity, allowing us to advance and grow. We hope our leadership will allow for a colourful outlook amidst an uncertain future and our vivacity will encourage others to overcome hardship. To complement these two words, we chose the colour mauve to reflect the Class of 2022’s service to the school community. Theserene light purple hue expresses renewal after two years apart; the calm after a storm. Mauve also represents our mission to support the community through compassion and its symbolism as a colour of inspiration emphasises our cohort’s ultimate goal of leading by example. The women's suffrage movement was represented by this colour describing purple as the colour of loyalty, constancy to purpose and unswerving steadfastness to a cause. With such strong values established by those strong women before us, we continue to create a legacy of unity. With the energy of red and the calm tones of blue, mauve depicts the balanced and considered example wanting to be set by the Year 12s, as well as the energy and warmth by which we want to be remembered.

With the influence of the past two years, the roles of the Co-Captains have been challenged and redefined. We have the previous Ruytonians to thank for the potent, established culture evident in such a small, tight-knit community. After this unprecedented period, the strength of the Ruyton community is undeniable and in 2022, we hope to continue the harmony and solidarity that exists in our Ruyton family. Weasa cohort, as well as individuals, aim to lead with passion and devotion, to serve with soul and love; ultimately leaving a part of ourselves in our service.

Minduli Weeraman and Sarah Lardner School Co-Captains 2022