On this episode of One Step Beyond, we are joined by Kerry Gibson, VP of Strategic Partnerships, ZiphyCare.
In this conversation, Kerry Gibson humorously describes her role as VP of Strategic Partnerships as “making friends for a living.” She elaborates on how her role involves connecting people and organizations, identifying where their goals align, and helping to piece together collaborative solutions for both local and international projects. Whether working in health tech, government, or academia, Kerry highlights the privilege of engaging with extraordinary individuals and gaining a broad perspective on effective strategies and impactful initiatives.
Kerry shares a pivotal moment in her life when a major car accident at the age of 22 left her a paraplegic, forcing her to confront a profound loss of independence and redefine her life’s direction. She speaks about reclaiming her determination and using her personal experiences to address challenges. Driven by a desire to create positive change, Kerry emphasizes the importance of empowering others through shared networks and opportunities, channeling her resilience into advocacy and impact.
Kerry reflects on the critical skills she has developed to drive change effectively, particularly the art of diplomacy. Initially a straight talker, Kerry shares how working with organizations like the UN taught her the importance of choosing her words carefully to engage others constructively rather than escalating tensions. She emphasizes the value of addressing uncomfortable conversations head-on, framing them as opportunities to strengthen relationships or build more cohesive teams. Her approach underscores the balance between directness and tact in fostering meaningful dialogue and sustained impact.
Aram and Kerry explore the importance of moving beyond critique and taking tangible action to address societal challenges. Kerry shares her perspective on leading by example, the power of passion in advocacy, and the value of mentorship in fostering the next generation of changemakers. She encourages individuals to leverage their skills, networks, and resources to contribute meaningfully, whether by collaborating with existing organizations or engaging with their communities to make a difference. The discussion emphasizes purpose-driven leadership and the impact of turning passion into meaningful action.
Connect with Kerry:
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Research & Projects
Ziphycare
Connect with Aram:
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Connect with Cadence Leadership & Communication:
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Cadence Leadership