Invictus






Mandela's leadership is an excellent example of how change comes through compassion and strength for the greater good of the people and not from revenge. He could have used his position to punish those who had put him in prison over the years and no one would have blamed him. However, great leaders lead their organization in order to form a unified vision for change. He knew that this could not happen without all the stakeholders being involved in the process.

 Mandela was masterful in bringing together all the stakeholders to unite his county. His actions surprised not only those who once opposed him but his own followers. The lesson he taught was that leadership is about bringing people together for a common cause, building bridges, and a culture that is inclusive. I always say that" leadership is not a popularity contest." Leaders are often tasked with making unpopular decisions that many do not understand.

 Mandela's decision to allow workers in his newly acquired position to keep their jobs and support a sports team that many of his followers despised was not popular but the right thing to do. One might say that he knew he needed to keep his ememies close, but I think he learned through research (in prison) that many things such as the color of ones skin might separte us on a superficial level but over all everyone wants the same basic things in life. Mandela knew these things could only be obtained by working together.