LEADERSHIP
the changing face
of leadership
BY BRENDA DEMPSEY
“True Leaders don’t create followers; they create more leaders”
Is it Nelson Mandela, Mahatma Gandhi or Yusuff Ali?
When you think of great leaders, instinctively your thoughts turn to men. This has been the norm for thousands of years. However, in today’s world there is a growing change towards this outdated thinking.
Throughout your life, you are unconsciously influenced by culture, education, and media projecting subliminal messages, which promote male superiority over female inferiority. Even if you don’t mentally agree, your subconscious mind is suggesting otherwise.
Let’s consider the role of Women in Leadership.
The role of women is changing in our world. Women who are no longer happy with the status quo find courage and challenge the norm; the new man acknowledges that women can enhance, benefit and bring new ways of thinking to the table. The world seeks change, and embracing a new type of leadership spearheads the way.
Ask yourself “Who are the great female leaders of the last century?” Perhaps you may have considered Mother Teresa of Calcutta;
Lubna S. Olayan from Saudi Arabia or Princess Diana from the UK.
Let’s bring our attention to the women of today who are creating change in many fields, from politics to education and business.
Women such as Dr. Hayat Sindi, the first woman to be a part of the Consultative Assembly of Saudi Arabia; Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of the Qatar Foundation (QF) and HH Sheikha Fatima Bint Mubarak, UAE, champion of Women’s Rights, are committed to driving change in the world. They believe in the power of collaboration to achieve that vision.
Women are taking their fate into their own hands by stepping into leadership to make the difference they can in changing perceptions relating to the role of women today, in a more inclusive society where equal opportunity exists.
Consider what these women have in common. Without exception, they each found a cause and purpose greater than themselves. They fight for what they believe in, almost certainly going against the tide of the day. Moreover, being highly influential, they attract many followers and supporters who help them achieve their vision. Their conviction, determination, and perseverance against all odds, drive them to achieve great heights, changing the lives of others and at the same time leaving a legacy for today and future generations.
You could argue they are single-minded, forthright and stubborn. In fact, they are visionaries, exceptionally brave, and demonstrate the strength and power of being a successful woman in a world that is dominated by men. Without a shadow of a doubt, they are the pioneers of female leadership. They open doors for a new breed of woman, striding further into the twenty-first century where technology, science and innovation sweep our world at a fast and furious pace.
Transitioning from one way of life to another brings resistance, raises fears, and creates uncertainty. So how do the leading women who stride out in front break through the glass ceiling and embrace the future with excitement, adventure, and a sense of achievement—even before they have climbed their mountain and staked their flag on the peak? They find Purpose.
38 | BIZPRENEUR MIDDLE EAST April 2021
26 | TRAINING MAGAZINE EUROPE FEB 2015