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AY2024-T5 Unit 1 BUS 5411 Written Assignment - Introduction To Leadership

A mandatory written assignment from the University of the People. AY2024-T5 Unit 1 BUS 5411 Written Assignment - Introduction to Leadership.

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67 views4 pages

AY2024-T5 Unit 1 BUS 5411 Written Assignment - Introduction To Leadership

A mandatory written assignment from the University of the People. AY2024-T5 Unit 1 BUS 5411 Written Assignment - Introduction to Leadership.

Uploaded by

mrrohanmcleod
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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WHAT MAKES A GREAT LEADER

Anonymous Student

Department of Business, The University of The People

BUS 5411: Leading in Today’s Dynamic Context

Dr. Farookh Shaikh

June 26, 2024


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Wangari Maathai, the first African woman to receive the Nobel Peace Prize, exemplifies

numerous leadership traits that have contributed to her effectiveness and impact. Her Nobel

Lecture is a testament to her leadership potential and offers insights into her guiding principles

and values. Two key leadership traits illustrated in her lecture are her visionary leadership and

resilience. Maathai spoke passionately about her vision for environmental conservation and

sustainable development in Africa, articulating a clear and compelling vision of a greener, more

equitable world. She emphasized the interconnectedness of environmental health, human rights,

and democracy, stating, “When we plant trees, we plant the seeds of peace and seeds of hope.”

This statement encapsulates her visionary perspective that links environmental action with

broader societal benefits. Additionally, she spoke of the movement’s impact on empowering

women and promoting sustainable development: “The planting of trees… provides them with a

sense of purpose and dignity. They are not only paid for their work but are also given a tool with

which they can shape their future.”

Another key trait demonstrated by Maathai is her resilience and determination. Throughout her

life and career, she faced significant opposition, including political persecution and societal

pushback. Despite these challenges, Maathai remained steadfast in her commitment to her cause.

She recounted the numerous obstacles she encountered and how she overcame them, describing

her arrest and the physical assaults she endured: “I was arrested, I was put in jail, I was harassed,

and many of the women I worked with were harassed. But we never gave up.” This resilience not

only inspired those around her but also demonstrated the importance of persistence in achieving

long-term goals. Her determination was further highlighted when she discussed the broader

struggles for democracy and human rights in Kenya, emphasizing that the fight for

environmental conservation was deeply intertwined with these larger battles.


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While Maathai’s lecture effectively highlighted her vision and resilience, it minimally addressed

the aspect of collaborative leadership. Effective leaders often emphasize teamwork and the

importance of working collectively towards common goals. Although Maathai mentioned the

involvement of women and communities in the Green Belt Movement, she could have elaborated

more on how collaboration and partnerships were instrumental in achieving success. Maathai

could have enhanced her lecture by sharing specific examples of how collaboration with other

organizations, governments, and international bodies contributed to the Green Belt Movement’s

success. For instance, she could have detailed partnerships with international environmental

organizations or support from the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). Discussing

joint initiatives and partnerships would have highlighted the significance of collective effort and

the power of uniting diverse groups for a common cause.

Overall, Wangari Maathai’s Nobel Lecture effectively demonstrated her visionary leadership and

resilience. Her ability to articulate a compelling vision and her determination in the face of

adversity were clear. However, the lecture could have provided a more comprehensive picture of

her leadership by emphasizing collaborative efforts. Despite this, Maathai’s speech remains a

powerful testament to her leadership potential and serves as an inspiring example for current and

future leaders. Her visionary outlook and indomitable spirit were central themes, showcasing her

ability to inspire and persevere. While the lecture could have better highlighted collaborative

leadership, it nonetheless stands as a powerful narrative of what makes a great leader. Maathai’s

life and work continue to inspire, reminding us of the impact one individual can have on the

world.
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REFERENCES:

Maathai, Wangari. (2004, December 10). Nobel lecture by Wangari Maathai (9 minutes)

[Video]. Nobelprize. https://www.nobelprize.org/prizes/peace/2004/maathai/lecture/

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