From Patriarchy to Partnership 

From Patriarchy to Partnership  Thomas Holtz, the Managing Director of the Multotec Group of Companies and member of the Citizen Leader Lab Board, fondly recalls his experience over a decade ago as a participant in Citizen Leader Lab’s school leadership programme, Leaders for Education.   By pairing public school principals with private sector business leaders, the Leaders for Education programme is designed to improve the confidence, competence and leadership skills of participating principals. Participating business leaders are able build their leadership skills and gain insights through involvement in the unfamiliar complexity of South African public schools.  Holtz was paired with Elizabeth Seema who has been the school principal of Rembrandt Park Primary since 2008. The school is located in the East Rand, Gauteng, and is home to more than 1200 learners and some 40 teachers.    From the outset, Holtz realised the importance of intentional relationship building.   “You’re invested in a person, not just the school or the leadership development programme,” he explained.   As a white male entering the world of a black, female school principal, he quickly learnt that Seema, a competent leader, didn’t need his help; rather she valued his investment in her ideas and challenges and his support in navigating challenges at her school.  This reciprocal relationship allowed Holtz to reflect on his own dynamics with power. A major revelation for him was transitioning from a “power over” to a “power with” dynamic. This shift, though simple in concept, was transformative in practice. It encompasses a collaborative, empowered and engaged approach to leadership. Through his relationship with Seema, Thomas saw first-hand how nurturing growth and connection has the potential to drive significant change on a personal and organisational level.  “The essence of the programme lies in the personal connections formed between people who wouldn’t usually meet, have an opportunity to learn together, work together as partners, take appropriate action or witness each other becoming better leaders,” he says.   Thanks to Citizen Leader Lab, Holtz’ was exposed to the likes of Brené Brown, a renowned American professor and author known for her work in leadership, and Peter Senge, one of the world’s pre-eminent thinks of organisational learning and systems change.  Even today, Brown’s narrative about being on the ‘’pitch versus sitting on the grandstand’’ deeply resonates with him.  ‘’Engaging actively, despite inevitable criticism, has made me appreciate the value of agency, and the profound impact of being a thinking partner and conversational ally,’’ he explains.   Holtz adds: “Senge talks about the core of any community being the relationships people create. Business marketing campaigns for example, or tangible outcomes, often pale in comparison to the power of genuine human relationships and what these enable.’’  Since his time with Citizen Leader Lab, Holtz’ has continuously challenged traditional business norms focused solely on shareholder value. By adopting a more conscious leadership approach in his own business, he strives to recognise diverse stakeholders and engage with communities meaningfully. This holistic perspective, he believes, is essential for sustainable business practices. The shift from a control-centric approach to one that values collaboration has successfully facilitated the growth of Multotec.   He recounts the very strategy session where the transition became clear: “Who are we waiting for?” he asked himself and his team. This question marked the start of a conscious move from a patriarchal to partnership leadership style, rooted in mutual respect and shared purpose.  Being an engineer by trade, Holtz understands that solving complex problems requires a collaborative, interdisciplinary approach that is adaptable in an ever-evolving business landscape.  “No one has all the answers,” he says, emphasising the need to understand social systems and behaviours.  Holtz believes that a focus on human connection, empathy and creativity is all the more essential in an era of AI and automation. These elements, he argues, distinguish effective leaders and businesses.   ‘’The future lies in the ability to connect on a deeper level, fostering a sense of community and purpose,’’ he says.  Holtz’ involvement with Citizen Leader Lab was more than just professional development—it was transformative for his life. It reshaped his leadership philosophy and approach to business, engendering the power of connection, collaboration and conscious leadership.   ‘’My personal journey from patriarchy to partnership has equipped me with the tools to navigate modern business environments more effectively and sustainably,’’ he concludes.  About Citizen Leader Lab  Citizen Leader Lab, a leadership development and support Public Benefit Organisation, is dedicated to creating resilient leaders in both the public and private sectors. Our vision is Leadership that builds a better future for all.  To this end, we offer a variety of programmes and workshops that work towards large-scale social change in South Africa, that empower individuals to be effective leaders and change agents in their communities. With over 14 years of experience, we continue to grow our presence in the education sector and extend our influence into critical public sectors, promoting cross-sector collaboration, active citizenship and social cohesion. 

Komala Pillay on the importance of developing conscious leaders for the good of society and business

Komala Pillay on the importance of developing conscious leaders for the good of society and business CEO of the Citizen Leader Lab, Komala Pillay, shares her journey from being an engineer to becoming a pioneer in using HR for good, with the goal of improving the lives of the country’s most vulnerable communities. After working in the private sector for nearly 20 years, Komala Pillay followed yet another one of her many callings. In 2020, she left a lucrative job as an engineer at a JSE and NYSE listed global chemicals and energy company to take up the role of CEO of the Citizen Leader Lab, a non-governmental organisation that grows conscious citizen leaders. Komala wanted to make a greater contribution towards our country’s progress, recognizing that the current socio-economic inequalities in South Africa must be addressed to create a more peaceful, stable and prosperous country for all its citizens. She joined Citizen Leader Lab, an organisation that understands the critical need for capable leadership across all sectors and all levels of society. “Our purpose is to develop conscious leadership that builds social cohesion, uplifts communities, and works towards achieving a just society. Our mission is to develop leaders who can catalyse positive change in their institutions, communities and broader society,” Komala explains. Before joining Citizen Leader Lab, Komala was inspired by the work they were doing, especially in bridging the gap between the public and private sectors through their flagship programme Leaders for Education. Through this programme, Citizen Leader Lab pairs public school principals with business leaders from the private sector in a year-long, immersive leadership development experience. The programme strengthens leadership capacity in schools, supporting school principals to become effective and conscious agents of change, and it fosters a strong and effective public-private partnership that brings new knowledge, skills and networks into public schools. Empowering principals from quintile 1 to quintile 4 schools – -schools that are classified as poor and under-resourced – has been nothing short of revolutionary. The Citizen Leader Lab works with a network of business leaders and education districts across the country. Business leaders are matched with school principals, all of whom volunteer to partake in the programme, sparking a partnership characterised by the exchange of ideas, the sharing of viewpoints, experiences and solutions over the period of the partnership.   Personal development Komala points out that the programme does not follow the typical mentorship top-down approach. Instead, the business leaders and the school principals are co-collaborators in a journey of problem solving, skills and leadership development and social awareness. For the school principals, the Leaders for Education programme helps them develop their leadership skills. They graduate from the programme with increased confidence and resilience, improved communication and team management skills, and with enhanced capabilities in bringing teachers, parents and other stakeholders along to support a common vision. The business leaders bring to the mix a different perspective based on their management experiences and expertise in the private sector. The leaders also expose the school principals to their vast network of other professional experts, who are sometimes roped in to support the school principals in areas where they need backing. “The business leaders bring their knowledge, they bring networks, and they bring a fresh perspective to the education system. School principals have often been battling with the challenges within their schools for years. Business leaders come in as thinking partners to the principal, and this partnership often sparks creative new ideas and solutions,” Komala notes. An effective school principal plays a pivotal role in nurturing and supporting teachers, boosting morale, inspiring motivation and fostering innovation. This creates an environment that is conducive to learning and inspires positive changes within the education system as a whole. There is a benefit for the business leaders as well, who get an opportunity to flex their leadership muscles in an environment where they have no positional power, and where they have to learn to influence to achieve results. Through their interactions with the school principals and visits to the school, they inevitably become exposed to the community as well. This leads to better understanding of the context within under-resourced communities, which can help build stronger relationships with communities surrounding their business. Besides the obvious communal and national contribution, the programme is also a platform for personal growth.   HR for good The collective social benefits of these personal development engagements are immeasurable. Businesses are part of the societies they operate in, and the people who work for and run organisations are citizens of the said society. So it only makes sense that partnerships between the private and public sectors, as well as civil society and communities be fostered and bolstered. Komala believes it is critical for society in its entirety to find the solutions that will spark social renewal, reignite hope and self-belief, as well as grow capacity. Executives and other leaders in organisations occupy positions of power, which allow them to bring others along and unlock human potential and capacity. Programmes such as Leaders for Education offer a platform for business leaders to try new approaches that they would not ordinarily be exposed to. In these spaces of unlocking growth, capacity, development and of power and influence, catalysing positive change – leaders have the space to be partners who co-create and lead alongside their teams. “I think our work can completely support business to achieve what they want to achieve in terms of leadership development and also make a contribution towards improving our country. Our aim really is to foster a culture of strong leadership in our country where we prioritise conscious leadership, where people are aware of the impact of their leadership on society,” she says. As part of their wellness strategies, organisations that are seeking to inspire their teams differently can look at the partner programmes offered at Citizen Leader Lab. Participating business leaders do so on a voluntary basis, a practice that has been found to have a positive impact on employees. With

How a Brief Encounter Changed My Life: A Reflection for Youth Month in South Africa

How a Brief Encounter Changed My Life: A Reflection for Youth Month in South Africa Iviwe Mtubu In 2017, I had the honour of joining my school principal at an event where we shared our stories—his as a participant and alumnus of the Citizen Leader Lab leadership programme for school principals, and mine as a learner in the same school, Wynberg High, which serves a poor community in Cape Town. My story was one that many South Africans know all too well—growing up in a township, raised in a single parent home, and surrounded by poverty. However, my talk was not about hardship; it was about triumph. It was about defying the odds and making it against all expectations, and the realization of what is possible when ordinary citizens actively contribute to developing leadership that creates a better future for all and how this affects young people. The most noteworthy part of that day was not my own story. It was a brief encounter with a remarkable leader from Citizen Leader Lab. We exchanged only a few words that day, and I would never have imagined that this shared moment would change the course of my life. I saw this person one more time when I was at university when she facilitated a diversity workshop for a group of Jakes Gerwel Fellows of which I was one, studying towards a teaching degree at the University of Cape Town. Fast forward to late 2019, when unexpectedly, I received messages on LinkedIn and Facebook from this person—she was trying to get in touch with me. Despite knowing very little about me, she reached out because I had left a lasting impression on her. She had an opportunity for five South African students to attend a social entrepreneurship and innovation programme in Cape Town, designed for University of Maryland students from America, and she believed I belonged in the programme. It was a humbling moment for me as a young person. Here was an accomplished adult who had met me briefly, yet believed in my potential, and in me. Thanks to her unwavering determination, I was able to participate in that programme, representing South Africa on an international stage. I am a YoungEd Africa fellow because in 2022 she recommended that I apply for this programme aimed at empowering young people through fostering professional development within various tracks in the education sector. Today, I am a distinguished Jakes Gerwel Fellow who studied at the University of Cape Town (UCT). I hold a Bachelor’s degree specializing in Environmental and Geographical Science, coupled with a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) focusing on Geography and History, both attained with distinction. I have just completed an Honours degree in Environmental and Geographical Science, and am commencing with my Master’s in Environmental and Geographical Science at UCT in the second semester, underscoring my commitment to environmental science. I am a registered Candidate Environmental Assessment Practitioner (EAP) with the Environmental Assessment Practitioners Association of South Africa (EAPASA), with a solid grounding in environmental assessment and project management, complemented by a certificate from the University of Pretoria. A highlight of my academic prowess is my involvement with the Golden Key International Honour Society, which recognizes the top 15% of students in any field of study. My professional journey is one of significant contributions to education and environmental science. At Westerford High School, Cape Town, I served as a teacher for Geography and Mathematical Literacy and as a Deputy Head of House, inspiring students from Grades 8 to 12. My leadership capabilities developed early on during my time at Wynberg High School, Cape Town, where I served as Head Prefect, President of the Debating Society, and Founder of the Peace Club. My leadership extended to the Representative Council of Learners, where I held the roles of Chair and Treasurer. Recognized for my outstanding contributions to education and leadership, I was a 2021 Mail & Guardian Top 200 Young South Africans, listed under the Education category. My accolades include membership in the Golden Key Honours Society, the Jakes Gerwel Fellowship under the Allan Gray Orbis Foundation Endowment, Ikamva Youth’s Best Tutor award, and SHAWCO UCT’s Excellence in Teaching Award. As we celebrate Youth Month in South Africa, 30 years into our democracy, it is a poignant reminder of the role young people play in shaping the future. Youth Month commemorates the bravery of students during the Soweto Uprising of 1976, who fought for their right to equal education. It serves as a reminder that the voices and actions of young people can drive significant change. But young people can’t do it alone, tapping into the wisdom of our leadership community is useful as a reflector for our development. By being present and sharing our stories, we open doors to unexpected opportunities and create connections that can alter the trajectory of our lives. This person’s belief in me did not just change my life; it affirmed the importance of believing in others, and in potential, where it might not be immediately visible. I am grateful that my hard work, coupled with my service to community and the belief of someone in my abilities – has helped develop my leadership as a young person. This very personal experience taught me the incredible power of relationship, partnership, engaging with purpose, passion and possibility. Imagine what is possible if more of us can develop the kind of leadership that builds a better future for all. About Citizen Leader Lab Citizen Leader Lab leadership programmes create the right kind of environments to support school leaders to be able to engage with their community, engender a culture shift, welcome and work with partners more effectively, define their own needs better and decide what they want to create in their school environments, and look for the resources that will help them to create this future. For more information: www.citizenleaderlab.org or info@citizenleaderlab.org

Komala Pillay Named Fellow in NGO Whisperer Global Programme

Komala Pillay Named Fellow in NGO Whisperer® Global Programme Our CEO, Komala Pillay, has been selected as one of 50 fellows for the 2024 NGO Whisperer® Global Fellowship Programme. Offered by The NGO Whisperer® Centre For Social Impact, this distinguished six-month virtual leadership programme is renowned for its rigorous training and is dedicated to enhancing the capacities of exceptional leaders and founders of NGOs and social enterprises worldwide, particularly those from low and middle-income countries. Four years ago, Pillay pressed pause on a highly successful career in engineering to join Citizen Leader Lab as the CEO. Her bold move has since motivated our team and the communities that Citizen Leader Lab serves, demonstrating her commitment to driving social change. Pillay’s journey with Citizen Leader Lab began in 2018 as a participant on its renowned leadership development programme, Leaders for Education (at the time Partners for Possibility). This programme partners school principals of under-resourced schools with leaders from other environments. During her participation, Pillay developed an understanding of the critical need for Citizen Leader Lab’s work and a strengthened belief in the importance of strong local leadership and cross-sector collaboration to address the challenges facing South Africa. She continues to champion the pivotal role of quality education in revitalising the economy and promoting social equity, thus empowering individuals to lead purposeful lives. As a fellow, Pillay will benefit from one-on-one online tailored mentorship and leadership coaching, participate in masterclasses led by highly skilled faculty and gain an all-access pass to The NGO Whisperer® Global Summit in 2024. Additionally, she will join The NGO Whisperer® Global Community and alumni network and be featured in The NGO Whisperer® Magazine and Podcast. The NGO Whisperer® Global Fellowship Programme is made possible through a collaboration between Charles Warria, FLOCONSULT Change Leadership Coaching, Nourishment Vitality, The Human Side and The CPD Group. For more information on Citizen Leader Lab offerings and impact, visit www.citizenleaderlab.org Find out more about The NGO Whisperer® Centre For Social Impact here: www.ngowhisperer.com

Citizen Leader Lab | Leaderex 2023

On 14 September, industry leaders, professionals and entrepreneurs gathered at the Sandton Convention Centre, Johannesburg for the 2023 edition of Leaderex. Citizen Leader Lab, a leadership development non-profit and proud partner of Leaderex, hosted a robust conversation on overcoming South Africa’s most pressing challenges through leadership and nation-building. Here are some snapshots from the conversation: Our host, Dr. Kolosa Madikezela, on what moves her as a leader The issue of transformation is close to me – but it’s not just about gender and race. Being in a position to transform myself, my environment and ensure that voice in the room is heard is critical. This philosophy was explored and validated when I participated on Citizen leader Lab’s Partners for Possibility programme, where I was a business leader partner to a school principal. Tim Schultz, Partner at Brunswick Group, on nation-building and the racism of low expectations In South Africa, the vast majority of our people exist in terrible circumstances. Our people will only ride through these circumstances if they have ambition, and if they are imbued with a sense of what they are truly capable of. We need to be more ambitious. Ambitious about what our institutions can do, and what individuals can do. Komala Pillay, CEO of Citizen Leader, on the purpose of Citizen Leader Lab’s work Empowering leaders in the public sector to create systemic change matters. Why? Our public sector serves 85% of our people, If the public sector fails, we fail 85% of our people. There’s so much human potential. If we love each other, we can unleash that potential. Mzila Mthenjane, CEO of Minerals Council South Africa, on the role of business in nation-building, and his philosophy on leadership What we do, as business, about our electricity challenges, crime and corruption is critical for nation-building. The focus is not merely on contributing – but contributing in a way that projects respect, dignity and accountability. It is not an easy job being a leader, but it is still a choice. I strive to be a leader who leads with vision and foresight, boldness and selflessness. Citizen Leader Lab develops and strengthens the capacity of leaders in the public and private sectors. Through our unique learning methodology, we partner leaders in business with leaders in the public sector to help address some of South Africa’s most pressing challenges. Let’s turn challenges into opportunities, nurture ambition and unlock our nation’s potential together! Email info@citizenleaderlab.org for more information on how you can fund or participate in our dynamic leadership development programmes