Emerging Leaders – Kentaro Utsunomiya '28

Introducing our latest emerging leader, Kentaro Utsunomiya '28! Kentaro has stepped-up as a leader in all aspects of school life with his academic acumen, kindness, determination, and athletic abilities. He is a member of the junior boys basketball team, a varsity skier, and well-respected by both his peers and teachers. Originally from Japan, Kentaro demonstrates the ability to communicate kindness and talents while learning English and navigating life as an international boarder.

Leadership is about guiding others, it’s guiding my basketball teammates to play better together. In the dormitory leadership is about fulfilling my responsibilities. As an international student my role is to help others communicate better.

Someone I admire as a leader is my favourite NBA player Steph Curry. In my personal life, I really admire my parents. My father is a company leader, and he helps others reach their goals. I hope to do the same one day.

One of the challenges of being a leader is that it can be difficult to motivate others to change, especially when they are resistant. It’s tough because, ultimately, I can't force change, and that can be frustrating at times.

If I'm finding leadership frustrating, I focus on communicating openly with others and work towards finding common ground through compromise.

Kevin Lakes
Junior School Faculty