LEADERS Spotlight: Bobby Pedrero

1. What does being a Leader mean to you?

To me, being a leader is a multifaceted characteristic. In its most basic form, leadership is guiding others. However, leadership is neither about control nor authority, but rather vision, empowerment, and nurturing.

A leader sees the dignity in all human beings, creating an environment that fosters development and success.

A leader is someone who takes the helm when others won’t. A leader is also someone who knows when to invest in an individual’s goals and values, believing in their abilities even when they doubt themselves, providing them with the resources and guidance needed for them to flourish independently.

2. What’s your favorite part of being a leader?

One of my favorite aspects of being a leader is leading by example. Throughout my years leading in various roles, I’ve come to realize that others and myself learn best from a leader who practices what they preach.

At Empower ME Academy, our standard for excellence is applied to all, and I’ve come to grow significantly in my time here through holding myself to the same standards I hold others.

3. How has EMA helped you become the leader you are today?

EMA’s standards for excellence have stuck with me since I was a student back in 2014. The attention to detail, intensity in every drill, and pursuit of excellence in everything we do has been applicable to countless aspects of my life–helping me strive to be the best in everything I do.

The EMA mindset is something that I often attribute to my success and accomplishments.

4. What’s the best thing you’ve learned at EMA?

My favorite EMA mantra has been “Last One, Best One” since I first heard the phrase. This simple motto reminds me to put forth my best effort in everything I do, regardless of if I’m tired, have done it before, or am not feeling 100%.

Pushing yourself out of your comfort zone and finishing strong through adversity is one of the best traits EMA has gifted me.

5. How do you show up as a leader on and off the court?

On the court, I encourage my teammates with energy and enthusiasm. From EMA, I learned early in my basketball career that its not about being the best player on your team, but the best teammate for your team, which allowed me to contribute and give my all in ways besides just scoring points.

Off the court, I enjoy volunteering my time to be of service to others, whether working with youth or mentoring young men to find their full potential.

6. Who are some leaders that you look up to and why?

To me, a true leader is someone who has expertise and knowledge in their field, leads by example, is a visionary thinker, and has unyielding commitment.

A leader must combine knowledge with action, vision with perseverance, and guidance with genuine commitment. Some examples of leaders that fit this category for me are: my parents, a previous camp counselor, Coach Gumbs, Marcus Aurelius, Musashi Miyamoto, and Winston Churchill.

7. Define EMA with one sentence.

EMA is about developing individuals to become true leaders in everything they do, teaching them to be the best versions of themselves that are capable of bringing the best out of others as well.