Lessons from the movie - 'Invictus'

Nelson Mandela was the South Africa's first President (elected in a fully representative democratic election) from 1994 to 1999. We celebrate his birthday in the month of July.

Nelson Mandela was a charismatic leader who inspired people to a great extent. And he got inspiration from a Victorian poem called ‘Invictus’.?I remember one inspiring movie based on a true incident and named as 'Invictus'. This movie talks about Leadership, Motivation, Communication & Engagement in a Team. I like this movie as it demonstrates?the power of self confidence and optimism.?

When South Africa was almost on a verge of civil war, the rising unemployment, economic stagnation, managing the black aspiration with the white fear was a critical challenge, Nelson Mandela became the shining light to the Country. He kind of reunited the nation through The Rugby World Cup, 1995 which was hosted by South Africa.

The One Team One Country was the best part of this movie.

Mandela wanted to eliminate racism by treating everyone as ‘Equals’. As a leader Mandela said that “Forgiveness liberates the soul. It removes fear. That is why it is such a powerful weapon.”?and he walked the talk . He clearly said that it was no time for trivial revenge, but the time to build their nation together.

This movie elucidates strong leadership mindset in many ways. It talks about Mandela’s ability to communicate and engage with the people of South Africa, whites and the blacks, who were torn apart by the racial times. As a Human Resources professional, my key takeaway from the movie is the power of inspiration, communication, engagement and motivation. How it builds a meaningful connection & reunites the team as One Team One Dream.

"I am the master of my fate: I am the captain of my soul." - Invictus (poem by William Ernest Henley)