May 10, 2025 The Journey of Jabeth Rubio Through Growth, Empathy, and Self-Discovery
The story of Jabeth Rubio is a powerful testament to the transformative impact of the Emerging Leaders Development Program. Her journey highlights how self-awareness, vulnerability, and a commitment to growth can redefine what it means to lead with purpose and empathy.
Jabeth’s story begins with a moment of challenge that ultimately reshaped her perspective. On the very first day of the Emerging Leaders Program, she found herself grouped with others based on her CliftonStrengths. Despite sharing similar traits, it became clear that each person expressed these qualities differently. This experience was a wake-up call—she realized that even as someone who considered herself open-minded, she had been unknowingly carrying biases that limited her ability to listen and understand others truly.
Throughout the program, Jabeth was encouraged to step outside her comfort zone. Working with new people, engaging in deep conversations, and confronting uncomfortable truths, she began to see how imposter syndrome was more than just doubting her place at the table—it was about learning to lead with empathy, humility, and the courage to grow. These insights didn’t just change her approach to leadership; they changed the way she showed up for herself.
When her manager first told her about the Emerging Leaders Program with RIBBA, Jabeth admits she was hesitant. She didn’t see herself as a traditional leader, especially among others who already held leadership roles. Yet, beneath that hesitation was a quiet belief in her potential. She recognized that she wanted to build confidence, especially in public speaking and trusting her voice. She saw this program as an opportunity—a space where she could grow not only professionally but personally.
What made the experience even more meaningful was the community she found within the program. Being surrounded by diverse leaders who looked like her and shared similar aspirations created a sense of belonging. These connections became a source of inspiration, challenge, and support, reminding her that leadership isn’t a solo journey but a collective one.
Through intentional exercises and honest discussions, Jabeth learned that authentic leadership isn’t about having all the answers or being the loudest in the room. It’s about listening deeply, leading with heart, and continuously evolving. She discovered that her biases and self-doubts didn’t define her—that she had the power to challenge her assumptions and show up with more confidence and clarity.
Today, Jabeth leads with intention, empathy, and authenticity. She builds trust by listening genuinely, creating spaces where others feel seen and valued. Her leadership style is relational and compassionate, focused on uplifting others, harnessing their strengths, and fostering growth. She’s someone who stays curious, asks thoughtful questions, and admits when she doesn’t have all the answers, embodying a service-oriented approach to leadership.
Her journey illustrates a fundamental truth: leadership is a continuous process of learning, unlearning, and showing up better than before. The Emerging Leaders Program didn’t just equip her with skills—it ignited a shift in mindset that now fuels her purpose. She’s excited to deepen her impact, embrace new opportunities, and continue evolving as a leader who leads with heart and intention.
Jabeth Rubio’s story is a beacon of hope and inspiration for anyone seeking to grow as a relational, empathetic leader, reminding us all that true leadership begins with self-awareness, vulnerability, and a genuine desire to serve others.