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Atiba T. Edwards is the President and CEO of the Brooklyn Children's Museum. A former child visitor to the museum himself, Edwards now leads this cherished institution with a profound commitment to his community. His journey from a young visitor to the helm of such an important cultural space exemplifies his deep-rooted connection to Brooklyn and the impact he seeks to make for future generations.
A Full Circle Journey
Edwards reflects on how working at the Brooklyn Children's Museum feels surreal, especially as it marks nearly a year since he took on the role. Reminiscing about his childhood experiences, he recalls the joy and wonder of exploring the museum, and he now approaches his leadership with a sense of responsibility. His passion for fostering memorable experiences for young visitors drives him each day, and he aspires to exceed the joyous memories he created as a child.
Cultural Accessibility and Celebration
Edwards highlights the Brooklyn Children's Museum's mission to celebrate diversity and inclusivity through its programming. Recognizing the importance of representation, the museum hosts cultural festivals that uplift various communities, reflecting the rich tapestry of Brooklyn’s demographic make-up. From Dia de los Muertos to Lunar New Year celebrations, these events offer families the opportunity to engage with and learn about different cultures in an authentic setting.
Leading from the Back: A New Approach to Leadership
Throughout the podcast, Edwards discussed his philosophy of "leading from the back," which emphasizes the importance of supporting and empowering others while maintaining a strong, reliable presence. Drawing on his experiences in both investment banking and the arts, he noted how critical it is for leaders to provide the necessary support for their teams while ensuring that the mission is fulfilled. By merging his personal experiences with a deep understanding of the community's needs, Edwards is dedicated to creating spaces where children of all ages explore their curiosity and learn about themselves and the world around them.
Listen to this episode to learn about...
- [3:44] The importance of the Brooklyn Children’s Museum’s location
- [9:09] How Atiba was inspired by engineering studies, liberal arts, poetry and musicology
- [14:01] How Wall Street prepared Atiba for life’s unexpected turns
Tune into the Members Only episode to learn what advice Atiba has been given that he still holds near
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