Kamala Harris Shares Candid Message in Rare
Facing Fear with Courage
At the Leading Women Defined Summit, former Vice President Kamala Harris opened up about her fear of public speaking. “Fear had threatened to silence me,” she said, but she chose to speak anyway. Her message: “Courage isn’t the absence of doubt but the resolve to speak up despite it.” Harris reminded the audience that every leader has moments of uncertainty, and it’s in those moments that strength is built.
Stories That Inspire
Harris shared stories of resilience—a teacher reviving a failing classroom, a business owner rebuilding after disaster, and a community organizer standing up against injustice. These “quiet moments that demand bravery” show how ordinary acts can have extraordinary impact. “Courage is contagious,” she said, urging attendees to reflect on their own moments of boldness.
The Strength of Support
Harris emphasized that leadership isn’t a solo journey: “No one climbs alone.” She encouraged women to mentor each other, share struggles, and celebrate wins together. Reflecting on her own campaign, she said she leaned on close friends who “reminded me of my purpose on the toughest days,” and asked, “Who will remind me of my why when I lose sight of it?”
