Together Through Thunderstorms: How A Leadapreneur Team Became A Family

In our Stars of the Accelerator series, we explore the transformation journey of the participants in the Leadapreneur Accelerator.

Thunderstorm Cohort

A thunderstorm is a formidable force of nature. Our Star Cohort picked this name because, together, they are unstoppable! Thunderstorm members are Tan Koe Huai,  Adeline Chin, Kennix Phang, Lee Swee Mee, Yang Suan Seng, Celine Lim, Leong Shin Lynd and Hooi Ching Ching.

Their strong support structure and their  "can-do!" attitude very much impressed their colleagues and coach from the start. Celine says that the secret ingredient of their cohort is “good chemistry and open hearts.”

Teamwork can often be challenging when bringing together different personalities who have varying opinions with volatile emotions.
How did Thunderstorm overcome such common challenges?
Unanimously, they all agreed that it came down to 3 guiding principles:

- Non-judgmental and open communication
It might be daunting to share innovative ideas for fear of invalidation or even ridicule. Thunderstorm teammates were very mindful of each other’s feelings and remained respectful at all times. They also had the courage to speak up with honesty to keep transparency levels high.  Adeline described their success was due to “open conversation, care and courage.”

- Unwavering mutual support
Thunderstorm trusts each other. They celebrated each other’s successes and gave invaluable support when times got difficult. To do this, they adopted a policy of never leaving anyone behind.
As Koe Huai shares, “I felt comfortable expressing my troubled feelings about my project with my cohort. They would offer their shoulders for me cry on. They are the best encouragement one could ever hope for.”

- Play hard, work hard
Beyond the scope of their projects, these team players became friends outside of work. According to Kennix, they formed a bond because “we are able to be crazy with each other. We could drink all night but come back and work hard all day. We enjoyed spending time together and that is priceless.”
Shin Lynd goes as far as so say that Thunderstorm “feels like a family. It’s comforting to know that I am never alone.” Suan Seng also agrees on the family feel. Ching Ching’s advice for excellent teamwork is to “be open to accept ideas from others.”

This is more than an inspiring story. This is a story that demonstrates the strength of each member is the team.

Congratulations Thunderstorm in becoming the first ever Star Cohort of the Accelerator!