Leadership, Family, and Colouring Outside the Lines with Ursula Arslanian

This week on One Step Beyond, Aram sits down with his mother Ursula Arslanian. In this intimate conversation, they delve into the complexities of life and explore ideas of love, leadership, and the importance of self-discovery.

Ursula is retired from her career in education and is a community elder, wife, mother, and grandmother. Originally from Ireland, she was the first in her family to complete high school and go to university. There she studied to be a teacher and upon finishing her education, she moved to Sierra Leone to teach. In Sierra Leone she met her soon to be husband and they embarked on a new life together.

Throughout her life, Ursula has remained curious and hasn’t been afraid to colour outside the lines. She’s challenged the societal expectations set on her and her family, instead focusing on finding the path that is right for them.

During this moving discussion, Aram and Ursula talk about the role of an elder, the evolution of familial bonds over time, exchanging leadership roles, and so much more.

ON THIS EPISODE WE TALK ABOUT

• Reinventing yourself as you go through life.
• Challenging traditional views on partnership and motherhood.
• Realizing education isn’t enough to do well in your field.
• Forgiving yourself.
• Being empowered as a life-long learner.
• Learning to ask for help.
• Processing the guilt and shame of not keeping a loved one in the home.

Connect with Aram:
LinkedIn
@AramxArslanian