Leadership Greater Topeka 2022: MARSHA LISSETTE CARRASCO

Photo by: Braden Dimick

WHAT CHALLENGES YOUNG PROFESSIONALS TODAY?

Young professionals continue to have more options of where to find their dream jobs, communities and future career paths. They enter our communities with more expectations of inclusivity, opportunities, accessible social outlets and notable experiences. I believe this can be a challenge as young professionals may not look locally for these things and assume they have to go to larger cities to find these outlets, creating self-imposed limitations.

SHARE YOUR VISION FOR TOPEKA.

I feel so much pride and energy from my friends from Topeka. As a new resident of Topeka, I hope I am able to contribute to the incredible and dynamic vision created by the community. My vision for Topeka is for it/us to be an inclusive community that acknowledges areas of improvement with excitement and possibility; a community which is inviting to the global workforce; and a community that is held as an excellent example of a thriving city.

YOUR LEADERSHIP STYLE?

My leadership style is authentic and relational. I have grown to embrace being able to say, “I don’t know” and “Let’s figure this out together.” I have also grown to appreciate how who I am does not need to change to be an effective leader. I can be an effective leader at the same time that I can remain naturally energized by sincerely connecting with others; acknowledging and celebrating diverse ideas, perspectives, experiences, and backgrounds; allowing myself to be vulnerable and awkward as a strength; and being perfectly imperfect in every way.

WHEN DO YOU FEEL LIKE A ROCKSTAR?

This is a great question. It makes me want to feel like a rockstar more often! I think what makes me feel like a rockstar the most is watching my small humans become incredible beings with all the potential in the world. Whenever they look at something critically, or ask tough questions, or want to discuss things they are noticing, my heart swells and I do the happy dance inside my head.