| May 29, 2025
With everything going on in the world lately, I’ve been thinking a lot about leadership — specifically, the opportunities we have to lead and the gaps where leadership is needed. Before I go too far down that path, I want to share what I believe is one of the most powerful ways we can lead: simply showing up.
Whether it’s for our families and friends, our workplaces, or ourselves — how we show up matters. Of course, we all have days where we just go through the motions (sometimes more than we’d like to admit), but when we really show up, we lead by example.
Here are three recent reminders that have been top of mind:
Leadership Whatcom
It wouldn’t be a Business Buzz e-blast without a shoutout to our newly graduated Leadership Whatcom cohort. These emerging leaders just completed Whatcom County’s premier leadership development program. Over the past nine months, they’ve explored community issues, developed their leadership styles, and deepened their understanding of what it means to serve.
Congratulations to the Leadership Whatcom Class of 2024–2025! Your commitment to growth and service is inspiring.
Whatcom Events – Ski to Sea
For decades, our organization was honored to coordinate Ski to Sea, one of our region’s most iconic events. For the past 10+ years, Whatcom Events has carried that torch and taken it to new heights.
Every year, this race is made possible by hundreds of dedicated volunteers — a core reason for its success. While the crowds may disperse after the finish line and Fairhaven festivities, the work doesn’t end there. On Memorial Day, Whatcom Events posted a tribute to the volunteers who showed up again — this time to clean up. On a holiday. That’s leadership. That’s community.
We’d also be remiss not to acknowledge the Marine Corps League Detachment for hosting the Whatcom Memorial Day Parade on Saturday. Thank you for continuing this beloved tradition.
Filing Week
While many of us were planting spring flowers or getting our gardens going in mid-May, Filing Week quietly arrived — the time when local candidates officially throw their hats in the ring.
Leadership isn’t just about being visible — it’s also about stepping up to serve, whether on boards, in management, or in elected office. This year, several races in our county are going uncontested. In some cases, that’s a testament to the quality of the incumbents. But it also raises concerns about civic engagement and participation.
At a time when dissatisfaction with leadership seems widespread, we have fewer choices than ever on the ballot. As campaign season ramps up, let’s remember: we need — and deserve — a deep bench of capable, thoughtful leaders who reflect our diverse community. Maybe that next leader is you. If not this year, maybe next time.
-Guy |
