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Nelson Mandela

Eargerness to Learn

A constant characteristic of a leader is that they possess an eagerness to learn or to change their situations and the circumstances of others.   Nelson Mandela fits the characteristics of the classical leader in the public sector.   He inspired people to change.   Mandela empowered people in order to realize a transformation.   The people of South Africa were able to see themselves benefiting from his ideals.  

Modeling Good Leadership Skills

Good leaders Model the way for future leaders, they serve as examples for others in the public sector.   Early on the experiences Mandela witnessed would shape his life.   As a young child, Mandela had someone to Model the Way for him.   He was the son of a chief, and was groomed to serve as a leader. This experience exposed him to wealth and authority.   “By attending meetings Nelson learned how to give counsel to a king.” (Deluca 2000, 64)   Early on Mandela began to question and review many dark aspects of his society.

As we have discussed previously, all leaders face a turning point in life when they begin to ask questions and eventually Challenge the Process.   One must have a challenge to become a leader.   Leaders observe when need are not being met and rise to the occasion. (James Kouzes, Barry Posner 2000, 18)
Nelson was receiving a rigorous education that would garner anyone in his place, the status and respect of an English gentleman. (Deluca 2000, 64)   It was during this time, Mandela search for his own identity began.   Nelson joined with students from various backgrounds and was exposed to new ideas.   Mandela felt he was being groomed for success.   When World War II started many students began to argue that the British had oppressed the African people.   The turning point came in his college life.  

Hence, the turning point came when students began to express dissatisfaction with food at the university where Mandela was attending.   Members of the student council decided to resign and call...