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Gross Impact | Morality, Survival, and the Art of Quiet Leadership

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By Jan Mokoala 28 October 2025 “Enabling you to grow your ultimate leadership net worth .” This reflection comes a few days after my birthday, not because I forgot, but because this year has taught me that true reflection often arrives after the noise settles. Unlike last year, where I spoke about leadership growth and purpose , this year’s reflection isn’t about what I’ve done; it’s about what leadership has done to me . We’ve all heard people in great power share what they believe makes a great leader. Their words often sound perfect, structured, noble, and beautifully rehearsed. But those theories work best in a perfect world. And we don’t live in one. In conversation with Aisha at the Wits Alumni in Dubai The Paradox of Leadership | Between Morality and Survival What my parents taught me and what I had to become to survive are almost the same, except that survival demanded adjustment . Leadership today is a paradox; to keep leading effectively, you must sometimes become thi...
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Leadership Reflections: The Ripple Effect of Influence in Organizations

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 ðŸ’¡ “A fish rots from the head down.” This age-old proverb cuts deep into the heart of leadership. When things go wrong at the junior level, the instinct is to correct, punish, or replace. But what if the real root of dysfunction lies not at the bottom, but at the top? 🚨 The Real Source of Organisational Problems Most organisational leaders are quick to notice performance dips, miscommunication, and bad habits forming among trainees or junior staff. But few pause long enough to ask the toughest question: Where are these habits being learned from? Just like in families, organisations pass down behaviours, not through formal policies, but through influence . A trainee observes their trainer, absorbs their tone, and mirrors their professionalism (or lack thereof). That trainer? They’re learning from their team leader. The leader? Watching their manager. The manager? Often taking cues from the CEO. This top-down influence silently defines organisational culture. And unless it’s ...
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Gone Without a Trace: The Hidden Dangers of Digital Disappearance

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By Jan Mokoala | March 23, 2025 The last time someone saw him, he was walking out of his apartment, phone in hand, wearing the same clothes he always did. But a few days later, his name appeared on a hotel check-in list in a country he had never been to. His bank records showed flight bookings and shopping sprees in unfamiliar places. Yet, his phone remained off. His social media went silent. His body was never found. A ghost, swallowed by the digital age. This isn’t just the plot of a Hollywood thriller. It’s a terrifying reality. In South Africa, we’ve seen how easy it is for people to disappear—some willingly, some against their will, and some because someone else wanted them to disappear. Now, as an expat in Dubai, I’ve realized something chilling: modern technology can be used to erase you before you even know it’s happening. Image by  hartono subagio  from  Pixabay The Setup: How Someone Could Erase You Digitally & Physically Imagine this: You're living abroad,...
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You Cannot Make Someone Feel Like a Somebody If You Personally Feel Like They're Nothing

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oftenly associated with motivation, pressure, and accountability. Many leaders believe that pushing their teams harder will drive results. However, true leadership is not about exerting unnecessary pressure but about understanding individuals and finding the best ways to bring out their potential. Understanding People to Drive Performance People respond differently to various leadership styles. While some thrive under tight deadlines and high expectations, others need encouragement, clarity, and structured guidance. A leader’s role is to learn their team members’ behaviors, preferences, and work styles to optimize performance without making them feel cornered. Image by  Maria_Domnina  from  Pixabay Holding people accountable is essential, but accountability should not feel like coercion. When leaders apply relentless pressure without considering the emotional and psychological impact, they risk diminishing morale, reducing efficiency, and fostering resentment. The goal...
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The Odd Man in the Room: A Journey of Cultural Resilience and Leadership

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In today’s multicultural world, our identities are often shaped by the myriad experiences we face—both in public and within the intimate confines of our homes. For many, including Black men navigating spaces where language and cultural differences become apparent, every interaction is a lesson in resilience, awareness, and leadership. The Power of Language and Cultural Nuance Imagine entering a room where you’re not only speaking a language different from your peers but also subject to ridicule for the way you express yourself. The experience of being laughed at for speaking a language that is not considered “standard” can be deeply isolating. It forces one to confront not just the weight of societal judgment but also the internal battle of wanting to improve while holding onto the essence of one’s identity. Language, in this context, becomes more than a means of communication—it is a vessel carrying the nuances of culture, history, and personal experience. Every mispronounced word or ...
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Crossing the Finish Line: Lessons from the Spartan Race

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When I signed up for the Spartan Race, I expected a physical challenge. What I didn’t anticipate was the depth of the lessons I would learn about leadership, gratitude, and resilience. The Spartan Race is not just about running or obstacles; we took it as a test of determination, teamwork, and the ability to push through discomfort. As I crossed the finish line on Sunday, I reflected on how much this experience mirrors life and leadership. Resilience in the Face of Challenges Every obstacle reminded me of the importance of resilience. Some hurdles were tough, others seemed impossible—but each one taught me that persistence and belief can carry you through. As leaders, we face challenges that test us, but overcoming them shapes our character. The Power of Teamwork I didn’t run this race alone, and that’s the beauty of it. Just like the proverb says, “Tau tÅ¡a hloka seboka di Å¡itwa ke nare e hlotÅ¡a” (Unity is strength—even lions fail to hunt without working together). My team was there to...
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Location: Dubai - United Arab Emirates
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The Power of Humble Leadership: Staying Grounded as You Rise

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 In the journey of leadership, it can be easy to focus solely on success and upward movement. However, humility and staying connected to your values are what truly sustain long-term success. As the Sepedi proverb goes, "O se bone go akalala ga bo nong, gowa fase ke ga yona" (No matter how high the bird flies, it must eventually come down). This timeless wisdom speaks to the importance of staying grounded as we rise in our careers and influence. Image by  stacy vitallo  from  Pixabay Leaders who remember their roots and maintain humility inspire loyalty, respect, and trust within their teams. Grounded leadership doesn’t lose sight of the team or the purpose behind each achievement. Instead, it builds resilience and fosters a culture where everyone is valued and heard. Just as the bird eventually returns to the ground, even the most successful leaders need to stay connected to their team, values, and community. Leaders who embody this wisdom ensure that success is s...
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