As I write this, my mother is at the end stage of her life. She is the wisest woman I know and throughout my life, I have lent on her wisdom as a guide to compassion and humility. She grew up with limited opportunities, but raised her children with strong values.

 

In African Philosophy, Ubuntu – often translated as ‘I am because we are’ – offers a powerful lens through which to understand wisdom. It reminds us that wisdom is not an individual trait, but something cultivated in community. It’s about honouring the dignity of others, listening deeply, and acting with empathy and integrity.

 

Ubuntu grounds wisdom in five key ways:

• Relational Wisdom: Ubuntu teaches that how we treat others is a reflection of our inner wisdom. It’s about seeking connection, not domination.
• Interdependence over Individualism: Wise leaders don’t make decisions in isolation. They consider the collective – knowing that true progress lifts everyone.
• Restorative Practice: Where the world often punishes mistakes – Ubuntu encourages healing, dignity and reconciliation.
• Eldership and Collective Memory: Wisdom is passed down, not hoarded. Ubuntu values the lived experience of elders and the deep insight they carry.
• Humility and Humanity: Ubuntu calls us to lead with compassion and humility – recognising that being human with others is the essence of wisdom.

 

I recall the story Nelson Mandela told of his father, a chief and counselor to the Thembu King. When his father gathered with other tribal leaders in a circle during community meetings, he would sit and listen to everyone. He would not interrupt, he would listen carefully. Then, after everyone had spoken, he would offer his opinion. He was the last to speak. This is the same with my own mother. She rarely offers an opinion and creates a safe space to just be.

 

Ubuntu reminds us that wisdom isn’t about being the smartest voice in the room – but being the one who listens most deeply and uplifts others.

 

From Values to Vision

 

At the heart of wisdom lies clarity of values. Values are the anchor that keeps us grounded when things get uncertain – honesty, courage, empathy, justice and respect. When leaders lead from their values, decisions become clearer, and actions become aligned with purpose.

 

But values alone are not enough. Wisdom connects values with vision – the ability to see beyond the now, to consider long-term impact, and to lead not just for today’s gains, but for tomorrow’s good.

 

 

Leadership Guided by Wisdom

 

Wise leadership is marked not by control or charisma, but by discernment and service. It asks:

• What is right, not just what is easy?

• What do others need, not just what do I want?

• How do we grow, not just how do we (or I) win?

 

Wise leaders listen more than they speak. They recognise complexity but strive for simplicity in action. They model restraint in conflict and courage in uncertainty. And perhaps, most importantly, they nurture wisdom in others – creating cultures where reflection, feedback and learning are part of the fabric.

 

Cultivating Wisdom: Practices for the Journey

 

What I’ve valued most in my growth journey is learning the importance of stepping back, stopping, reflecting and looking at the bigger picture. This is a practice I continue to work on.

 

• Reflection: Step back regularly and ask, ‘What am I learning?
• Values check-in: Revisit your guiding principles – are your choices aligned? Over time my values have shifted and changed. 
• Mentorship & Dialogue: Engage with others who stretch your thinking and your heart.
• Stillness: Make space for silence – wisdom often speaks when the world quiets (or as Rumi says ‘inner silence is a gateway to divine wisdom’).

 

Final Thoughts

 

In leadership, we often seek answers. But wisdom invites us to sit with better questions. It teaches us that strength can be quiet, that clarity comes through values, and that the most powerful leaders are not those who know everything – but those who know themselves and understand their role in the collective.

 

As you continue your journey, may Ubuntu guide your leadership, and may wisdom be both your compass and your legacy. As I have been so fortunate to be guided by the wisdom of my kind, gentle, wise mother.