Individuals who dedicate their careers to improving their communities and serving a larger purpose often find themselves on a journey filled with both fulfillment and challenges. Strong scientific leadership, combined with a commitment to lab management best practices, allows these professionals to make a lasting impact. Those who embrace effective lab leadership skills—such as strategic thinking, communication, and collaboration—help drive innovation while fostering meaningful change in the communities they serve.
Each year, Lab Manager honors individuals who demonstrate exceptional leadership and management skills through our Leadership Excellence Awards program. The 2025 Leadership Excellence Awards recognizes seven individuals for their outstanding contributions to their respective organizations.
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Ishimwe Florence, lab technician at GIMSR Hospital, is the recipient of the 2025 Outstanding Community Service Award. This award celebrates laboratory professionals who have gone above and beyond their roles to engage with and support their communities.
Michelle Gaulin, associate editor at Lab Manager, spoke with Florence about her leadership journey, the key qualities of an effective lab manager, and the community-driven initiatives that have shaped her career.
Q: What resources or individuals did you learn your leadership and management skills from?
A: I've learned from a combination of formal education, mentorship, and hands-on experience. My university professors, research supervisors, and laboratory managers have all played significant roles in shaping my leadership and management skills. Additionally, I've attended workshops, conferences, and online courses to expand my knowledge and stay updated on best practices.
Q: What do you enjoy most about your role and/or career?
“As a laboratory leader, I enjoy the challenge of managing a team, allocating resources, and making strategic decisions that drive our research forward.”
A: I'm passionate about the impact that laboratory research can have on communities. As a laboratory leader, I enjoy the challenge of managing a team, allocating resources, and making strategic decisions that drive our research forward. Seeing our team's hard work translate into meaningful outcomes is incredibly fulfilling.
Q: In your opinion, what are the most important qualities or skills for a laboratory leader to possess?
A: Effective communication, strategic thinking, and emotional intelligence are essential qualities for a laboratory leader. The ability to motivate and empower team members, manage conflicts, and adapt to changing circumstances is also crucial. Furthermore, a laboratory leader should possess technical expertise, be familiar with regulatory requirements, and stay up-to-date with industry developments.
Q: What inspired you to take on a leadership role in community service, and how has it impacted your lab and team?
“My inspiration came from recognizing the need for scientific literacy and access to healthcare in underserved communities.”
A: My inspiration came from recognizing the need for scientific literacy and access to healthcare in underserved communities. By taking on a leadership role in community service, I've been able to engage my team in outreach initiatives, promote STEM education, and collaborate with local organizations to address health disparities. This experience has not only enriched our lab's culture but also fostered a sense of social responsibility among team members.
Q: Can you share a specific project or initiative that has made a significant impact on your community?
A: One project that comes to mind is our lab's partnership with a local nonprofit organization to develop low-cost diagnostic tools for infectious diseases. By working together, we've created a sustainable solution that has improved healthcare outcomes in our community. This project has also provided valuable training opportunities for our team members and inspired a new generation of scientists to pursue careers in global health.
