Many organisations today face the critical challenge of transformation. While strategies, technologies, and processes are often spotlighted as key drivers of change, Karen Leong offers a different perspective. During her keynote at Singapore’s Public Service Festival 2026, she emphasized that real change hinges on the people within the organisation—understanding, trust, and ownership are paramount.
Insights from Singapore’s Public Service Festival 2026
Karen Leong’s session at the festival tackled a common obstacle in transformation efforts: the human element. She argued that while plans and technology are essential, they often become ineffective if they do not include a human-centric approach. According to Leong, successful transformation requires leaders to develop influence, foster mindset shifts, and exhibit practical leadership behaviours that resonate with their teams.
The Role of Influence in Transformation
Leong highlighted that influence is a critical factor in driving organisational change. She proposed that influence goes beyond mere persuasion—it involves creating a culture where leaders actively engage and inspire their teams to be invested in the change process. She shared insights on building trust and encouraging team involvement as key strategies for overcoming resistance to change.
Mindset Shifts and Leadership Behaviours
A significant part of Leong’s keynote was dedicated to the concept of mindset shifts. She discussed how leaders need to adopt a growth mindset to lead effective transformation. This includes being open to new ideas, learning from failures, and adapting to changing circumstances. By embodying these behaviours, leaders can set an example for their teams and inspire confidence in the transformation journey.
Practical Steps for Leaders
For leaders looking to implement these strategies, Karen Leong offered several actionable steps. These include clearly communicating the vision for transformation, ensuring that all team members understand their role in the process, and providing consistent support throughout the transition. By prioritizing communication and creating an environment of shared ownership, leaders can effectively drive the adoption of change within their organisations.
Transformation initiatives often fail because they overlook the impact of human factors. Karen Leong’s emphasis on people rather than just plans provides crucial insights for leaders and event organisers looking to achieve lasting change.
To enquire about Karen Leong for a conference, leadership meeting or corporate event, contact Speakers Connect at info@speakersconnect.com.