When I stepped into the role of President of EO New York, I knew it would be a challenge. I knew it would ask more of me as a leader, a collaborator, and a human being. But what I didn’t fully anticipate was just how much it would change me—from the inside out.
This wasn’t just a leadership role. It was a year-long masterclass in growth, courage, and clarity.
Stepping In, Stepping Up
Leading one of the most dynamic EO chapters in the world was equal parts exhilarating and humbling. It pushed me into rooms and conversations where I had to lead with intention, listen with humility, and make decisions with conviction. That kind of responsibility revealed strengths I hadn’t fully tapped into—and more importantly, it helped dissolve doubts I didn’t even know were holding me back.
Confidence, for me, wasn’t about pretending to have all the answers. It came from showing up consistently, making small decisions that aligned with my values, and watching those small actions compound into meaningful impact. That momentum unlocked something powerful: I started believing in my ability to lead not just others—but myself.
Strength in the Collective
What made this journey not only possible, but deeply rewarding, was the incredible group of people I got to walk alongside. I had the privilege of working with a Board I could trust—leaders who showed up, followed through, and believed in the mission as much as I did. They weren’t just collaborators—they were the backbone of our success.
And then there’s the broader EO New York community.
This chapter is filled with some of the most dynamic, thoughtful, and values-driven entrepreneurs I’ve ever met. Through this shared journey, I built connections that went far beyond business or boardrooms. Some of the people I met during this term have become my closest friends—the kind you can lean on when things are hard and celebrate with when things go right.
That’s the magic of EO. It’s not just a network. It’s a family.

From Hesitation to Clarity
This role gave me the clarity I didn’t know I was searching for. Somewhere along the journey, I realized the real shift wasn’t in what I was doing—it was in what I was letting go of.
I let go of hesitation.
I let go of fear.
And perhaps most importantly, I let go of alcohol which that had become the norm of my social life.
Deciding to eliminate alcohol wasn’t a dramatic moment. It was the quiet, steady realization that my leadership journey deserved a clear mind and a full heart. That decision became a catalyst for deeper transformation, both personally and professionally. It wasn’t about control; it was about alignment. And it’s been one of the most freeing decisions I’ve made.
The Compound Effect of Showing Up
Over the course of this year, I learned that growth doesn’t come from grand declarations. It comes from consistency. From making the next right decision. From showing up even when it’s uncomfortable.
And the more I showed up at board meetings, in forums, at events, and with myself, the more I grew. The fears I used to carry started to feel lighter. The moments of doubt became fewer and farther between. And in their place? Curiosity. Possibility. A renewed sense of purpose.
What’s Next
As my presidency comes to a close, I’m not stepping away, I’m stepping forward. I’ll continue to serve on the EO New York Board under the leadership of our new President, Robert Rivadeneira, whose theme “Rise Together: Empower, Engage, Elevate” beautifully captures where we’re headed.
And as for me, I’m moving into the next chapter with open eyes and a fearless heart. This past year reminded me that I’m capable of more than I imagined. Now, I get to find out just how much more that is.
To anyone considering stepping into leadership: Do it. Not for the title, but for the transformation. The person you become along the way will thank you.
With gratitude,
Shad Mohammed
EO New York President, 2024–2025