That was the message at the recent NextGen Leadership Breakfast at GIBS, which brought together young professionals and experienced leaders.
Setting the scene, GIBS NextGen Board chairperson Khabile Selepe said the board was established because leadership recognised that the future should not be discussed for the next generation but shaped with them.
“Our role is not simply to represent young employees. It is to create meaningful dialogue between generations, surface fresh perspectives, and contribute to the continued evolution of an institution that has always believed in the transformative power of leadership,” she said.
The breakfast aimed to foster this kind of leadership through discussion, practical learning and engagement with peers and senior leaders.
Navigating complexity
Keynote speaker Dr. Tumelo Chaka explored what it means to lead in complexity, focusing on three key themes: personal and corporate branding, multicultural intelligence, and crucial conversations.
On branding, he stressed that reputation is built every day. “In every assignment, you are in a constant interview. How you treat people reflects who you are as a person and a brand.”
He described multicultural diversity as a competitive advantage in today’s world. Leaders who are curious, open to learning, and able to understand different cultures are more likely to succeed because they build teams that share those values. “A future leader is the person who commands the room through their presence and influence,” he said.
Dr. Chaka encouraged young professionals to seek mentors and sponsors to support their career and leadership journeys. However, he noted that both relationships require active participation, particularly sponsorship, where the question should always be: how do I add value?
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