Professor Pikay Richardson, Governing Council Chair of the University of Gold Coast, has urged graduates of the institution to uphold integrity, courage and hope as they prepare to take on leadership roles in an increasingly complex world.
Speaking at the university's 2026 graduation ceremony on the topic "Leadership in an Age of Complexity," Prof Richardson challenged graduates to remain principled even when doing the right thing becomes difficult or inconvenient.
"Choose curiosity over complacency. Choose courage over comfort. Choose kindness over indifference. Choose integrity over convenience and choose hope even when circumstances make it difficult," he told the graduating class.
Prof Richardson said leadership should not be measured only by professional titles, financial success or social status, but by the character individuals demonstrate and the difference they make in the lives of others.
"People may remember your achievements, and some may not even remember at all, but all of them will remember how you treated them," he said.
He encouraged graduates to demonstrate kindness, honesty and compassion, stressing that integrity becomes most important when individuals are faced with difficult choices.
According to him, the world does not expect graduates to have all the answers but expects them to remain willing to learn, ask meaningful questions and adapt to changing circumstances.
"Never confuse confidence with certainty. The wisest people know there's always more to learn," Prof Richardson said.
Drawing from his own career journey, he explained that his professional path did not follow a straight line. He began as an electrical engineer before moving into management, academia and leadership development, eventually teaching and training professionals in more than 26 countries.
He said his experience demonstrated that unexpected turns can often become some of the most meaningful chapters in a person's life.
"Life can be like a maze that you are navigating through," he said, adding that growth often comes from uncertainty, setbacks and the courage to change direction.
Prof Richardson also urged the graduates not to fear failure, describing it as an important part of the learning process.
"Failure isn't the opposite of success. Very often, it's part of success. Every mistake teaches you something if you are willing to learn from it," he said.
He further encouraged the Class of 2026 to use their education to create positive change in society and to help others succeed.
"Lift others as you climb. Be the mentor you once needed. Be the encouragement someone else is searching for," he advised.
Prof Richardson concluded by urging the University of Gold Coast graduates to dream boldly, work diligently, treat people with respect and never stop learning.
"Your greatest legacy will not simply be what you accomplish, but who you actually become," he said.
