Iowa's Quality of Life

Lydia Yisa-Doko

Today was quite an interesting day at leadership Iowa University. It’s also our last full day for the session. It was a day for us to learn about the “Quality of Life in Iowa.” We traveled to RDG Planning and Design, Des Moines, where we had a panel of great minds. The businesses represented on the panel were RDG, CI3, Downtown Community Alliance, Tero International, and Greater Des Moines Partnership. They spoke about the purpose of their businesses, challenges they face, as well as strategies of being a good leader.

After our trips to Pella and Ames, I have come to realize that Iowa has much more than I imagined. Aside from these towns being peaceful, beautiful, and surrounded by nature, there are companies and business that offer lots of opportunities to the community. After listening to the speakers, I have learned different things such as the importance of using my gifts to follow my passion, knowing my strengths and using them to achieve success, and also entrepreneurial opportunities in Iowa.

We also had a tour of downtown Des Moines which was interesting to see. And later, we got to meet really impressive business leaders which we had made connections with. It was a nice experience to hear their stories and achievements. Another interesting place we visited was the Iowa Hall of Pride. Looking at all those amazing people that have contributed to the Iowa community with the talents was very inspirational. It made me think about myself and how I can also use my talents and passions to contribute to the community.