Mandela: The art of the authentic leader

At a time of incredible social change, there is much talk about the leadership traits required to drive positive outcomes for humanity. But, inspired by Nelson Mandela’s legacy, we believe that the focus on leadership at this time of volatility and uncertainty is somewhat misplaced – the real challenge is to inspire humanity towards following a path to peace and prosperity for all. 

And Mandela’s story provides insight into how building and sustaining a follower-driven movement can be achieved. 

The personal narrative – who am I?

The best leaders excel in their followers' eyes by being themselves and developing awareness about what shaped them into who they are. They are able to communicate “Who am I” and Mandela seemed to understand this from a very early age. 

After his father's death in 1927, the young Mandela became the ward of Chief Jongintaba Dalindyebo, the acting regent of the Thembu nation. It was at the Thembu royal homestead that his personality and values took shape. He learnt how a chief should listen to others, and this led him to be a very patient listener and to appreciate the power of humility. 

Grace and dignity

Mandela knew that his political uprising would lead to prosecution and confinement by the ruling government, yet he was undeterred by the consequences of his actions. In the prime of his life, Mandela was imprisoned, and stripped of possessions that often denote a leader – certain attire, actions, behaviours, and material goods. His sense of autonomy was lost, but rather than despair, his focus shifted to internal self-control and integrity. When he saw that his outer world was becoming confined, his interior world became bigger.

Imprisoned, Mandela stood tall and spoke with a firm but humble voice, all of which commanded respect, not only for how he treated others, but how he expected to be treated by others, even those who would oppress him such as the prison guards who controlled his life.