Legal aid leaders face extraordinary challenges in times of uncertainty. Beyond budgets, caseloads, and strategic plans, leadership today requires navigating fear, burnout, and rapid change—with both courage and compassion.
In her recent MIE Journal article, “Skills to Lead Legal Aid Programs Through Uncertain Times,” Program Director Martina I. Cucullu Lim highlights the emotional intelligence and leadership skills that are most essential for guiding teams through instability.
Martina identifies five core skills that every leader should strengthen:
Self-care – Protecting your own well-being so you can sustain the energy needed to lead others.
Awareness – Staying attuned to your own emotions and the needs of your staff.
Empathy – Building a culture of understanding and support across your organization.
Grit – Persisting through setbacks, obstacles, and uncertainty with determination.
Confidence – Projecting resilience and hope, even when the path ahead requires adaptation.
She reminds us that these skills are not “nice-to-haves,” but vital tools for ensuring that legal aid organizations continue serving communities—even in times of upheaval.
At OneJustice, we’ve seen firsthand how leaders who invest in developing their emotional quotient (EQ) and change management skills are better equipped to rise to the occasion. That’s why our Executive Fellowship and Strategic Leadership: Navigating the Now programs provide nonprofit executives with the training and peer support they need to build resilience, manage uncertainty, and lead with vision.
“Take a breath. Feel the ground beneath your feet. Say out loud, ‘I can do this!’” – Martina I. Cucullu Lim
We are proud to share Martina’s wisdom with the broader legal services community as part of our commitment to building strong, sustainable leadership in legal aid.