"Good leadership is not just about making decisions, but above all, about listening, trusting and encouraging."

Sylvia Kranebitter has devoted 46 years of her life to the Austrain Red Cross where she has made a remarkable journey as a paramedic driven by her deep passion for helping and supporting others. As a leader, she embodies a compassionate approach with the aim of empowering others. Sylvia underscores that leadership can be driven with warmth and empathy and encourages more women to aspire for leadership positions. 

Sylvia is currently serving as the District Branch Manager at the Red Cross regional office in Telfs, and as the Head of the Department of Health and Social Services at the regional branch in Tyrol. 

"The Red Cross has been a part of almost my entire life, and for me, it is so much more than a volunteer activity - it is a part of me, something that lies very close to my heart and continues to fill me with joy. 

My journey began in 1979 when I took my very first aid course at the age of 16. This marked the beginning of my passion for the organization. I decided to actively engage with the Red Cross Movement as a paramedic because I wanted to support people when they needed it most. Until my wedding in 1987, I was constantly on duty—learning, teaching and experiencing the importance of solidarity. After taking a break to care for my family, I returned to work with the Red Cross at their local office in Rietz in 1997. It was then that I began working with young people, teaching first aid courses,  and became active as a paramedic again. I remember it felt like coming home to a community where I could contribute my skills and continue to grow and develop as a person.

In 2004, I chose to educate myself in "Crisis intervention and stress management after stressful operations" (SVE). This was a significant step for me, as I wanted to be able to not only treat physical wounds after accidents but also to support people who required deeper emotional care. Often, it is the emptional wounds that require more time and attention than a simple band-aid can provide, and this understanding continues to shape my actions to this day. 

In 2009, I became deputy manager, and in 2013, I began serving as Director of the local office in Rietz. Unfortunately, that branch closed in 2017 due to staff shortages. Although this made me extremely sad, giving up was never an option to me. Instead, I moved to the Red Cross Telfs and continued my journey with the organization. 

Throughout my time with the Austrian Red Cross, I have completed many trainings and courses. However, my goal has never been to collect titles, but rather to share knowledge and empower others. Since 2024, I have served as Head of Department of Health and Social Services at the regional branch in Tyrol. This role is deeply fulfilling, as it allows me to help shape things, make strategic decisions and ensure the well-being of our community. In 2021, I was elected District Branch Manager at the Red Cross regional office in Telfs and was reconfirmed in May of this year. The trust my colleagues place in me touches me deeply and motivates me to serve wholeheartedly and ensure that we remain strong as a community, especially in times, when solidarity is more important than ever.

For me, the Red Cross has becoma a family, a home, and a source of strength all at once. It is a place where help and compassion are held as the highest value. I have met many people in their most difficult moments, but also in times filled with hope. I have experienced how strong we are together and how much we can achieve when we put our heart and soul into it. This feeling stays with me everyday.

I have learned that it is possible to lead with warmth and empathy, and that it takes courage to reveal your own weakness while still taking responsibility. Good leadership is not just about making decisions, above all, it is about listening, trusting, and encouraging others. I have learned how important it is to stay true to yourself and to be a role model for others, something that do not have to be done perfectly, but authentically.

Many women still hesitate to step into leadership roles, often doubting themselves and their abilities, especially when trying to balance family, caregiving responsibilities, and volunteer work. I relate to these struggles, but I have learned that it is precisely this blend of ambition, empathy and authenticity that defines a leader. Women bring a unique strength to the table, and it is time for us to confidently embrace and shape our roles as leaders. 

I really hope that volunteer work and the Red Cross will continue to touch even more people, and that young individuals feel they can make a real difference and know they belong here. I hope women will be encouraged to take on responsibility - whether in the background or at the top, and I hope that together we will be able to build a future where compassion and solidarity are seen as a given. I believe a good potrait should do more than just present facts; it should reveal what drives me and why I have chosen to do what I do. It should be an expression of my heart, my doubts and my hope. Above all, the potrait should encourage me to take action myself and follow my own path with passion."

Sylvia Kranebitter, Austrian Red Cross