Book Review: The Future of Leadership-24 Top Leadership Voices

The Future Leadership - 24 Top Leadership Voices in South Africa is a thought-provoking and insightful collection of perspectives from some of South Africa's most influential leaders. The book provides various insights, anecdotes, and advice that will resonate with aspiring leaders and anyone interested in leadership.

Perspectives from Prominent Leaders

Let's commence with Mmusi Maimane, the leader of Build One SA. Mmusi Maimane makes an analogy between leadership and riding a bicycle, highlighting the responsibilities and challenges leaders face while navigating the path to success. Rob Hersov, Chairman of Invest Africa & Cape Winelands Airport, underscores humility, acknowledging his faults and emphasising hiring individuals who exceed one's abilities.

Wahida Parker, MD at Table Mountain Aerial Cableway, provides another intriguing insight: "What is going to make you impactful is how many people you uplifted along the way."

The book further underscores the importance of values and purpose in leadership. Claudelle Von Eck and Shirley Zinn both stress the necessity to be rooted in one's purpose, principles, and values. This sentiment is mirrored by other leaders such as Kobus Kleyn, who believes personal branding is the key to unlocking one's full potential and leaving a lasting impact on the world. Dr Judy Dlamini, Chancellor of the University of the Witwatersrand and Executive Chair of the Mbekani Group, also contributes to this narrative: "You have to empower your people... that's loyalty built, and that's talent identified."

Leadership Challenges and the Qualities to Overcome Them

The book also delves into the challenges of leadership and the essential qualities to overcome them. Jay Naidoo, a Mo Ibrahim Foundation board member and an inspiring mentor, notes that life's most challenging journey is often the shortest. This thought-provoking statement encourages leaders to embrace challenges and persevere through adversity. Mteto Nyati, Chairman at BSG and Bestselling Author, offers this wisdom: "Future leaders need to understand the value of being slow to be fast."

The significance of cross-cultural awareness and inclusivity in leadership is also emphasised. Thulani Sibeko, Chief Brand & Marketing Officer at Standard Bank Group, underscores embracing different cultures, emphasising cross-cultural awareness as a critical leadership prerequisite. Buli (Mbha) Ndlovu stresses embracing different cultures and building diverse teams. They underline the importance of fostering a supportive, inclusive environment to drive success. The book stresses the value of collaboration and cross-cultural awareness in leadership.

Throughout the book, leaders discuss the essential components of effective leadership. Prof Bonang Mohale emphasises influence and movement creation, while Cyril Madiba recognises people's contributions to a leader's achievements. Joel Stransky highlights the importance of setting an example as a leader, and Dr Jackie Chimhanzi underscores the role of leaders in facilitating conversations and driving collaboration. Prof Mamokgethi Phakeng, Vice Chancellor of the University of Cape Town, shares this insight: "What makes you successful as a leader is how you manage the things that are not always clear-cut and the ability to be decisive and have a reason for why that decision was made."

Personal Growth and Self-Care

The book also addresses personal growth and self-care. Margaret Nienaber encourages leaders to believe in others' potential truly, and Barbara Creecy emphasises the value of taking breaks to make impactful decisions. Celiwe Ross underscores the significance of vulnerability in fostering creativity and innovation.

The Significance of Building Networks

Another prominent theme is the importance of building networks. Adam Craker, CEO at IQbusiness (Pty), COBRA (NPC) & SAtion (NPC), highlights the importance of building one's network. He highlights the value of collaboration as one of the most significant aspects of leadership. This advice serves as a reminder that leadership success often relies on the connections and relationships one builds.

Empathy, Community and Continuous Learning

Margaret Hirsch, Co-Founder and COO at Hirsch's emphasises the importance of helping others. She states, "It's important that you go out and help other people ... it just makes you feel good, it makes them feel good, and that's the way to go, and it's all about people." This quote underscores the significance of empathy and community in effective leadership.

Allon Raiz, Founder and CEO at Raizcorp, provides a unique perspective on leadership. He views leadership as a journey rather than an endpoint. His quote, "I see leadership as a journey and not as an endpoint at all," reminds me that leadership is an ongoing process of growth and learning.

Stuart Baxter, Global Premier League Head Coach and 2X PSL Coach of the Season concludes with a philosophical thought: "The TRUE Meaning of Ikigai." This emphasises the necessity of finding purpose and joy in what one does.

Now let’s give each author a say through their quotes:

Mmusi (Aloysias) Maimane - Leader of Build One SA: "At the end of the day, leadership is a bit like driving a vehicle. In fact, I share this often with my wife and kids..."

Maimane's comparison of leadership to driving a vehicle sets the tone for the book, highlighting the importance of guiding and steering others towards a common destination. By drawing this relatable analogy, Maimane emphasizes the responsibilities and challenges leaders face in navigating the path to success.

Rob Hersov - Chairman of Invest Africa & Cape Winelands Airport: "Hire people better than yourself... I'm aware of my faults, of which there are many."

Hersov's quote underscores the significance of hiring talented individuals who surpass the leader's capabilities. This approach reflects humility and a recognition that a strong team is essential for effective leadership. By acknowledging his faults, Hersov encourages leaders to embrace self-awareness and surround themselves with individuals who complement their skills.

Claudelle Von Eck (DPhil) - Experienced Executive and Non-executive Director. Keynote Speaker: "You've got to be rooted in your purpose, your principles and your values."

Von Eck emphasizes the importance of being grounded in one's purpose, principles, and values. This quote highlights the need for leaders to clearly understand their core beliefs and motivations, as these form the foundation for ethical decision-making and guiding others with integrity.

Adam Craker - CEO at IQbusiness (Pty), COBRA (NPC) & SAtion (NPC): "Building one's network is probably the most important thing."

Craker's quote underscores the significance of building and nurturing professional networks. Successful leaders recognize the value of relationships and collaborations in today's interconnected world. This quote emphasizes the importance of networking to leverage opportunities, gather diverse perspectives, and drive personal and organizational growth.

Jay Naidoo - Board Member Mo Ibrahim Foundation | Patron PAST AFRICA Elder. Grandfather. Humanist. Inspiration Mentor: "The most difficult journey in life is the shortest journey."

Naidoo's quote encapsulates that authentic leadership often requires individuals to undertake challenging paths that may be brief but demand resilience and determination. This statement encourages leaders to embrace the difficulties encountered along their journey, viewing them as transformative opportunities for personal and professional growth.

Kobus Kleyn CFP? - Global Financial Services Thought Leader: "Personal branding is the key to unlocking your full potential and leaving a lasting impact on the world."

Kleyn highlights the significance of personal branding in leadership. The quote emphasizes the need for leaders to cultivate their unique identities and establish a solid personal brand that aligns with their values and aspirations. By doing so, leaders can position themselves for success, inspire others, and leave a lasting legacy.

Prof Bonang Mohale - Chairman at Bidvest | President of Business Leadership South Africa: "Leadership is about influence, it's about creating movement, it thrives when three qualities are present."

Mohale emphasizes the essence of leadership as the ability to influence and create positive change. The quote underscores the importance of three essential qualities that drive effective leadership, inviting readers to explore those qualities further within the book.

Cyril Madiba - Head: Commercial Asset Finance - ABSA | M&G Top 200 YSA 2021 SAICA Top 35 under 35: "In my journey I've learned that whatever you achieve as a leader will be through your people."

Madiba acknowledges the integral role of people in a leader's journey. This quote highlights the significance of nurturing and empowering the individuals within an organization as they contribute to the collective achievements and success of the leader.

Shirley Zinn - Chair V&A Waterfront, Board Member, Bestselling Author: "To co-create, communicate, connect, build cohesion and collaboration. These are the leadership skills that are becoming more important."

Zinn emphasizes the evolving landscape of leadership skills. The quote highlights the importance of fostering collaboration, effective communication, and the ability to connect with others. It underlines the growing recognition that leaders must create environments conducive to co-creation and collaboration for sustainable success.

Stuart Baxter - Global Premier League Head Coach | 2X PSL Coach of the Season | National Team Coach South Africa & Finland: "The TRUE Meaning of Ikigai."

Baxter's quote alludes to Ikigai, a Japanese term that encompasses finding purpose, passion, and a sense of fulfilment in life. This statement suggests that understanding the true meaning of ikigai can profoundly impact leadership and guide individuals towards a meaningful and purpose-driven leadership journey.

Mimi Kalinda - Group CEO and Co-Founder: Africa Communications Media Group | LinkedIn Influencer: "You have to decide from the beginning of your journey what you want to be known for, what is going to be your legacy."

Kalinda highlights the significance of deliberate intentionality in leadership. The quote prompts leaders to reflect on their desired impact and legacy, encouraging them to align their actions and decisions with their long-term aspirations to create a lasting and meaningful leadership legacy.

Thulani Sibeko CM (SA) - Chief Brand & Marketing Officer at Standard Bank Group: "Cross-cultural awareness is a key leadership requirement today and the attitude of embracing different cultures."

Sibeko underscores the importance of cross-cultural awareness and inclusivity in leadership. The quote emphasizes the need for leaders to embrace diversity and appreciate the value different cultures bring. It recognizes that effective leadership requires an open-minded and inclusive approach in today's globalized world.

Buli (Mbha) Ndlovu (MBA, CMSA) - Executive Head: Retail and Business Banking Marketing at Nedbank: "You don't want to get to the promised land with dead bodies around you."

Ndlovu's quote highlights the importance of ethical leadership and the need to prioritize the well-being and support of those around you. It emphasizes the significance of building healthy and collaborative relationships, fostering an environment of trust and growth.

Prof Mamokgethi Phakeng - Vice Chancellor of the University of Cape Town: "What makes you successful as a leader is how you manage the things that are not always clear-cut and the ability to be decisive and have a reason for why that decision was made."

Phakeng emphasizes the importance of adaptability and decisiveness in leadership. The quote highlights the need to navigate ambiguity and make informed decisions, providing a clear rationale for one's choices. It underscores the critical thinking and strategic skills required to lead effectively in complex situations.

Joel Stransky - Rugby World Champion Co-Founder at Pivotal: "Leadership is about setting the example that you would wish to follow."

Stransky emphasizes the role of leadership in setting a positive example for others. The quote highlights the importance of leading by example, embodying the values and behaviours one expects from their team. It emphasizes the influence leaders have in shaping the culture and performance of their organizations.

Dr Jackie Chimhanzi - CEO at African Leadership Institute: "Leadership is sitting at the center of a circle, facilitating conversations."

Dr Chimhanzi highlights the role of leaders as facilitators of dialogue and collaboration. The quote emphasizes the importance of creating a space for open and constructive conversations, fostering engagement, and enabling the exchange of diverse perspectives. It underscores the power of dialogue in driving innovation and effective decision-making.

Margaret Nienaber - Chief Operating Officer Standard Bank Group: "The biggest gift we can give to people around us is to truly believe in them."

Nienaber's quote emphasizes the transformative impact of belief and support in the growth and development of others. It highlights the importance of fostering a culture of trust and empowerment, where individuals are encouraged to reach their full potential. It underscores the significance of leaders in inspiring and enabling the success of those they lead.

Barbara Creecy - Minister of Forestry and Fisheries and Environmental Affairs, South Africa: "Some of the most important and impactful decisions I've made have been after I have had a break."

Creecy's quote emphasizes the value of taking breaks and creating space for reflection. It highlights the importance of self-care and maintaining a balanced approach to leadership. This quote suggests that by allowing oneself time for rest and rejuvenation, leaders can make more informed and impactful decisions.

Celiwe Ross - Director: Group Strategy and Group Human Capital at Old Mutual Limited: "If you can't be vulnerable, you can never be creative or innovative."

Ross underscores the importance of vulnerability in leadership. This quote highlights that being open, transparent, and willing to take risks fosters an organisation's culture of creativity and innovation. It emphasizes the need for leaders to embrace vulnerability as a strength, enabling them to inspire and empower their teams.

Mteto Nyati - Chairman at BSG Bestselling Author: "Future leaders need to understand the value of being slow in order to be fast."

Nyati's quote challenges the notion that speed is always the key to success. Thinking critically, planning, and building a solid foundation can lead to more effective and efficient outcomes. This quote encourages future leaders to prioritize quality and thoughtful decision-making over hasty actions.

Dr Judy Dlamini - Chancellor of the University of the Witwatersrand, Executive Chair of the Mbekani Group: "You have to empower your people... that's loyalty built and that's talent identified."

Dr Dlamini emphasizes the importance of empowering and supporting individuals within an organization. This quote highlights that by investing in the development and growth of employees, leaders can foster loyalty and identify talented individuals. It underscores the significance of creating a culture that values and nurtures the potential of each team member.

Shirley Zinn - Chair V&A Waterfront, Board Member, Bestselling Author: "To co-create, communicate, connect, build cohesion and collaboration. These are the leadership skills that are becoming more important."

Zinn's quote emphasizes the importance of leadership skills prioritising collaboration and connection. It highlights the need for leaders to foster an environment that encourages co-creation, effective communication, and collaboration among team members. This quote recognizes the evolving nature of leadership and the need for leaders to adapt their skills to the changing dynamics of the modern workplace.

Margaret Hirsch - Co-Founder and COO at Hirsch's: "It's important that you go out and help other people... it just makes you feel good, it makes them feel good, and that's the way to go, and it's all about people."

Hirsch emphasizes the importance of altruism and supporting others. This quote highlights the value of reaching out and offering assistance to others, creating a positive impact for oneself and those being helped. It underscores the idea that leadership is ultimately about serving and uplifting people.

Allon Raiz - Founder and CEO at Raizcorp: "I see leadership as a journey and not as an end point at all."

Raiz's quote challenges the notion of leadership as a destination. It emphasizes that leadership is a continuous and evolving journey rather than a fixed end goal. This perspective invites leaders to embrace a growth mindset and commit to ongoing learning, development, and adaptation. It reinforces the idea that leadership is a lifelong process of growth and self-improvement.

Wahida Parker - MD Table Mountain Aerial Cableway: "What is going to make you impactful is how many people you uplifted along the way."

Parker's quote highlights the importance of uplifting others as a measure of impactful leadership. It emphasizes that true success lies in the positive impact one has on the lives of others. This quote encourages leaders to prioritize the well-being and growth of those around them, recognizing that their influence extends beyond individual achievements.

The above analyses provide further insights into the quotations from the authors, offering readers a comprehensive understanding of the diverse perspectives on leadership shared in the book.

Overall, "The Future of Leadership - 24 Top Leadership Voices" offers a wealth of wisdom and inspiration from diverse leaders. Within the book, these quotations and their accompanying analyses provide a glimpse into the mindset and experiences of each leader.

They highlight the unique perspectives and wisdom the diverse contributors offer. Readers will find themselves engaged, inspired, and enlightened by the collective wisdom shared in this book. Whether you are a current or aspiring leader, this book is an invaluable resource that will guide and inspire you on your leadership journey. The diverse range of perspectives and experiences will enhance your understanding of effective leadership and empower you to impact your sphere of influence positively. Get a copy now at?https://lnkd.in/dGZcYnnP

Last but certainly not least, I must mention Dr Nik Eberl.

Dr Nik Eberl is the driving force and the visionary behind the acclaimed book, "The Future of Leadership - 24 Top Leadership Voices". As an established thought leader in global leadership, he has dedicated his career to building a Global Leadership Think Tank, through which he has helped over 100 leadership teams to develop their Roadmap2Success?.

In addition, Dr Eberl is a prolific author, focusing on topics that resonate with the current trends and the future trajectory of leadership, like team leadership, brand leadership, marketing leadership, and leadership development. His noteworthy contribution to the global leadership landscape extends beyond the written word. He is also a sought-after speaker for prominent platforms like the Nelson Mandela Foundation and TEDx, where he disseminates his wealth of knowledge and expertise to audiences worldwide.

Dr Eberl's passion for leadership extends to his role as a Global SAP Channel Partner Coach, guiding partners in their growth journey. His most significant contribution lies in his role as the interviewer in The Future of Leadership Podcast series, which inspired this book. His engaging dialogues with the 24 co-authors gave birth to the diverse range of insights and perspectives that form the very essence of this book.

Without Dr Eberl, this book would not have seen the light of day. His dedication to fostering understanding and leadership growth forms this invaluable resource's foundation. His incisive questions and thoughtful conversation steer the discourse, providing readers with a comprehensive understanding of the multi-faceted nature of leadership in the modern world.

With his unwavering commitment to promoting leadership development, Dr Eberl continues to inspire and guide leaders and aspiring leaders in their journey towards impactful and effective leadership.

Get a copy now at?https://lnkd.in/dGZcYnnP

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