The Art of Collective Leadership from South Africa to the World
By Louise van Rhyn and Thembalethu Seyisi
Leadership is often associated with authority, individual achievement and decision-making. However, We Lead challenges this conventional understanding. It presents leadership as a shared human practice that enables people to solve complex challenges together and build a better future.
Drawing on compelling South African experiences, the authors explore how collective leadership unlocks creativity, intelligence and courage. They demonstrate how leaders can create environments where people feel valued, trusted and motivated to contribute towards shared goals.
The power of collective leadership
The book draws on inspiring examples, from South Africa’s peaceful transition from apartheid to the Springboks’ success. It also explores the achievements of the Ndlovu Youth Choir, Eskom’s turnaround and partnerships across different sectors. These stories illustrate how collaboration can overcome seemingly impossible challenges.
Importantly, We Lead shifts attention from individual leadership qualities to the relationships and conditions that enable collective achievement. It encourages leaders to listen, build trust, share responsibility and recognise the potential within their communities. Furthermore, it demonstrates that meaningful change happens when people actively participate in shaping their collective future.
The book offers practical insights for business executives, educators, policymakers and community leaders. Its distinctly South African perspective also makes its lessons relevant to societies confronting inequality, uncertainty and social division. Rather than offering simplistic leadership formulas, We Lead encourages readers to embrace collaboration and shared accountability.
Ultimately, this inspiring publication challenges the assumption that exceptional individuals must drive progress. It makes a compelling case for collective intelligence and human connection as foundations for sustainable change. We Lead is an insightful read for anyone interested in developing inclusive leadership and building stronger organisations and communities.
About the authors
Dr Louise van Rhyn is a social entrepreneur and leadership development practitioner. She founded Partners for Possibility, which connected more than 3,600 business leaders and school principals to strengthen South African schools. She holds a doctorate in complex social change and has more than 35 years’ experience.
Thembalethu Seyisi is a South African lawyer, author and social justice advocate. He heads Law Reform, Advocacy and Institutional Partnerships at Stellenbosch University’s Centre for Social Justice. He also received recognition among BPM Global’s 100 Leading Black Professionals for his professional and philanthropic contributions.
- PUBLISHER | Penguin Random House SA |
- ISBN | 9781776393336 |
- Recommended Retail Price | R290.00 |
- Classification | Business & Finance |