Relational Leadership for Systems Change—Trust, Equity, and Action 

Driving systemic change requires a leadership approach grounded in trust, equity, and community accountability. In Robert Wood Johnson Foundation’s (RWJF) recent Vision Forward: Investing in Leadership for Systems Change webinar, Karla Walker, Executive Director of Community Solutions for Health Equity (CSHE), shared powerful insights into how CSHE embodies these principles. 

The Sweet Spot: Bridging Institutional and Community Knowledge Systems 

CSHE embraces cultural translation, a concept introduced by Elder Atum Azzahir (CEO of the Cultural Wellness Center), which, as Karla explained, establishes that “Institutional knowledge and community knowledge hold the same value.” 

This perspective is crucial for creating solutions that are not only innovative but also deeply rooted in the lived experiences and cultural wisdom of communities. By honoring both knowledge systems equally, CSHE bridges gaps that often separate institutional systems from the people they are meant to serve. 

Moving at the Speed of Trust 

Leadership that fosters systemic change requires time and intentionality. Walker emphasized how CSHE’s work is guided by a dual role of being both learners and teachers in every interaction.  “The work is moving at the speed of trust … It takes time to build relationships. We all have something to teach, and we all have something to learn.” 

This trust-building approach ensures that relationships are not transactional but transformative, creating the foundation for long-term collaboration and mutual respect. 

Listening in Motion 

CSHE aligns listening with action, ensuring community feedback drives meaningful change: 

“We listen in motion … We’re listening and putting into action the things that we’re hearing from the community.” 

This principle reflects a relational leadership model that values accountability to community voices. It ensures that feedback and insights from the community are translated into meaningful actions, fostering trust and demonstrating genuine partnership. 

Authentic Leadership 

Authenticity and accountability are central to CSHE’s leadership model. “We practice curiosity through mindful inquiry … building trust through actions that are trustworthy. We’re coming to the table as our authentic selves.” 

By prioritizing trust, authenticity, and action, CSHE exemplifies the leadership needed to dismantle structural racism. As RWJF continues its Vision Forward, CSHE’s model reminds us that systemic transformation is rooted in relationships, community knowledge, and collective accountability.