Breaking Barriers: Hon. Sheila Bartels on Leadership, Lessons, and Legacy

 

Dear Dreamers,

In this insightful interview, Hon. Sheila Bartels shares her journey from an entrepreneurial upbringing to a career in politics, emphasizing the values of public service and innovation instilled by her family. 

She discusses the challenges she faced as a first-time MP for Ablekuma North, highlighting her achievements in establishing a vocational training center and improving healthcare access. Reflecting on her loss in the NPP primaries, she offers valuable lessons on resilience and perseverance to the youth. 

Hon. Bartels expresses her passion for mentoring young entrepreneurs, especially women, and advises aspiring female leaders to believe in themselves and build strong networks. She outlines her strategies for ensuring constituent voices are heard and the importance of balancing her multiple roles with the support of family and mentors. Guided by principles of integrity, compassion, and excellence, Hon. Bartels aspires to be remembered as a dedicated public servant who made a positive impact on her community.

 

 

Beatrice: Hon. Bartels, Could you please share some key experiences from your upbringing that shaped your career in politics and entrepreneurship?

Hon. Bartels: My upbringing in a family that valued public service and entrepreneurship instilled in me a strong work ethic and a desire to make a difference.

Beatrice: What motivated you to transition from entrepreneurship to a political career, and how did your business background influence your approach to governance?

Hon. Bartels: My business background taught me the importance of effective management, fiscal responsibility, and innovation, all of which I applied to my political career.

Beatrice: What were the biggest challenges you faced as a first-time MP for Ablekuma North, and how did you overcome them?

 Hon. Bartels:  As a first-time MP, I faced challenges like learning the parliamentary ropes and balancing constituency needs with national responsibilities. I overcame them by seeking guidance from colleagues and staying connected with my constituents. 

Beatrice: Reflecting on your term as an MP, what are you most proud of accomplishing for your constituents?

 Hon. Bartels: I’m most proud of establishing a vocational training center and improving access to healthcare in my constituency.

 Beatrice: Losing the NPP primaries must have been a significant moment for you. How did you process this experience, and what lessons did you take away from it? What valuable 3 major lessons would you like to share with the youth?

 Hon. Bartels: Losing the NPP primaries was a tough experience, but I learned valuable lessons about perseverance, humility, and the importance of staying true to my values. My advice to the youth is to embrace failure as a learning opportunity, stay focused on their goals, and cultivate resilience.

Beatrice: What are your future plans, both within the political arena and beyond? Do you envision returning to politics, or do you have other ventures in mind?

Hon. Bartels: While I’m exploring future political opportunities, I’m also passionate about mentoring and empowering young entrepreneurs, especially women.

Beatrice: As a female leader in a predominantly male field, what has been your experience, and what advice would you give to young women aspiring to enter politics?

 Hon. Bartels: As a female leader, I’ve experienced both support and challenges. My advice to young women is to believe in themselves, build strong networks, and stay committed to their vision.

Beatrice: How do you ensure that the voices of your constituents are heard and addressed in your work? Can you share any specific initiatives that have had a significant impact?

Hon. Bartels: I ensure constituent voices are heard through regular town hall meetings, social media engagement, and personal interactions. One initiative that had a significant impact was establishing a community development fund.

Beatrice: Balancing your roles as an entrepreneur, politician, and family member must be challenging. How do you manage these responsibilities, and what support systems do you rely on?

Hon. Bartels: Balancing roles requires prioritization, delegation, and a supportive family. I rely on my spouse, mentors, and colleagues for guidance and encouragement.

Beatrice: What personal values and principles guide your decisions and actions, both in your professional and personal life?

Hon. Bartels: My personal values include integrity, compassion, and a commitment to excellence. These guide my decisions and actions in both my professional and personal life.

Beatrice: What would you like to be remembered for?

Hon. Bartels: I want to be remembered as a dedicated public servant who made a positive difference in the lives of others. Thank you for this opportunity to share my story. I hope it inspires and motivates the African youth.

Beatrice: The pleasure is all my Hon. Sheila Bartels