NAME: HASSAN IMRAN KAMARA
COUNTRY: SIERRA LEONE
TASK: ASSIGNMENT ONE (1)
TUTOR: Kectil Followship program
TASK 1.1
Research how old the universe is and then compare it to your potential life span. How does this
place in perspective the value of your life and your time on earth? What does this tell you about
the importance of every day? Compare your lifespan to various historic periods.
Ephemeral Nature of Human Life: When one considers the universe's immense duration, the
short life of an individual seems insignificant. This insight might make people feel more urgent
and grateful for the little time they have left.
Every Day Matters: Acknowledging the fleeting nature of existence highlights the importance
of every day. It stresses the value of living in the present, seeking out meaningful experiences,
and cultivating wholesome connections.
Historical Context: Context is further provided by comparing one's lifespan to different
historical eras. Contextualizing individual lives within the larger human narrative, for example,
is made easier by considering the evolution of civilizations, significant historical events, and
cultural transitions.
Cultural and Technological Changes: Take into consideration how quickly technology and
culture have evolved throughout history. The dynamic aspect of human existence is highlighted
by the fact that people now have access to possibilities and information that were unthinkable in
earlier times.
Legacy and Impact: Reflecting on the impact one can have during their relatively short lifespan
encourages consideration of the legacy one leaves behind. It may inspire individuals to
contribute positively to their communities and the world.
At the end of the day, realizing how big the universe is and how brief life is might help us
appreciate how special every day is. It emphasizes how crucial it is to have an authentic life,
follow your passions, build relationships, and use the brief time you have left to make a
difference. Viewed from this angle, people are inspired to live meaningful lives and make
meaningful contributions to the greater fabric of human history.
TASK 1.2
One of the best ways to provide a sense of urgency in your life is the realization that you will
die. And you don’t know how or when it will happen.
• How did a sense of mortality affect Dr. Martin Luther King? How did it affect
Steve Jobs?
• Write your own funeral speech. What do you want people to say about you when
you die? What will really matter and what do you want to be known for?
• A person's perspective on life, purpose, and legacy can be greatly impacted by realizing
one's own mortality. Steve Jobs and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. both dealt with mortality
in different ways, and this had a big impact on their beliefs and behaviors.
• Throughout his leadership role in the civil rights movement, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
faced the persistent danger of violence and death. Notwithstanding the many obstacles
and risks he faced, his dedication to justice and equality never wavered. It's possible that
his awareness of his own death made him more determined to advocate for change since
it made him realize how limited time was. The day before he was assassinated, Dr. King
discussed the potential of his early death in his well-known "I've Been to the
Mountaintop" speech. He spoke with a profound awareness of mortality and an
unwavering resolve to pursue justice at all costs, even if it meant losing people.
• Steve Jobs: In his fight against pancreatic cancer, Steve Jobs faced his mortality in the
face of a grave diagnosis. He gave life, purpose, and his legacy some thought as a result
of this event. Given that he was aware of his limited time, Jobs placed a strong focus on
living a genuine life and continuing to be a stupid and hungry person. During his 2005
Stanford University commencement speech, he discussed the influence of mortality on
decision-making and encouraged graduates to listen to their hearts and instincts.
Personal Funeral Speech: As we come together here today, ladies and gentlemen, friends and
family, I hope you will remember me for the way I lived and the influence I had on people
around me, not simply for the time I was here on Earth.
I hope you remember our times together laughing, being kind to each other, and building
relationships. Let it be known that I cherished being true to myself, had a purposeful life, and
appreciated the beauty of every day. Should I be bequeath any legacy, may it be one of empathy,
comprehension, and a dedication to improving the world.
• I wish to be remembered not for material achievements, but for the positive influence I
had on the lives of others. May you recall the times I extended a helping hand, offered a
listening ear, or shared in the joys and sorrows of life.
As we bid farewell, I hope you find solace in the memories we created together. Cherish
the moments of love and connection, and let them serve as a reminder of the importance
of human connection and the beauty of a life well-lived.
In the grand tapestry of existence, I believe it is the impact we have on others, the love
we share, and the kindness we spread that truly matter. So, let my memory be a beacon of
inspiration for each of you to live authentically, love deeply, and make a positive
difference in the lives of those around you.
Thank you for being a part of my journey. May you find comfort in the shared memories
and carry forward the lessons learned.
TASK 1.3
At some point in your life, you should take on a project that you think will leave this world
better off than if you had not been born. Even as young adults, when you are still trying to get
educated and start a career and family, it is not too early to start to think about what your gift to
the world might be, and when in your life you might be able to begin on that path. What are your
thoughts?
It's inspiring and fulfilling to consider starting a project that will improve the world. Here are
some ideas regarding this notion:
Purpose and Meaning:
Engaging in a project that contributes positively to the world can provide a deep sense of purpose
and meaning. It goes beyond personal success and fulfillment, extending to a broader impact on
society.
Early Consideration:
It's never too early to start thinking about the legacy you want to leave. Even as a young adult,
exploring your passions, values, and the issues that resonate with you can guide your path toward
making a meaningful contribution.
Incremental Progress:
Creating positive change doesn't necessarily require grand gestures or immediate, sweeping
actions. Small, incremental steps can accumulate over time and lead to substantial impact. Start
with what you can do now and build on it as you progress through life.
Adaptability:
As you navigate your career, family, and personal growth, be open to adapting your goals and
projects. Life is dynamic, and circumstances may change, but the core intention of making a
positive impact can remain constant.
Collaboration and Community:
Meaningful projects often benefit from collaboration. Building connections and working with
like-minded individuals or organizations can amplify the impact of your efforts. Consider how
you can contribute to a collective effort for positive change.
Sustainability and Long-Term Impact:
Reflect on the long-term sustainability of your project. Sustainable initiatives have a lasting
impact and contribute to creating a better world for future generations. Consider how your efforts
can be enduring and continue to make a difference over time.
Continuous Learning:
Embrace a mindset of continuous learning. Stay informed about global issues, explore new ideas,
and be open to evolving perspectives. This will enrich your understanding of the world and guide
your efforts toward addressing meaningful challenges.
Balancing Personal and Societal Goals:
Striking a balance between personal aspirations and societal contributions is key. Your project
should align with your individual values and passions while also addressing broader societal
needs.
In summary, taking on a project to leave the world better off is a noble endeavor that can provide
a sense of purpose and fulfillment. Start with self-reflection, explore your passions, and be open
to adapting your goals over time. Whether through small acts of kindness, community
engagement, or larger-scale initiatives, each step you take can contribute to a positive impact on
the world.
TASK 1.4
Draft a life plan that will allow you to accomplish your funeral speech in your lifetime.
Developing a life plan entails prioritizing tasks, establishing objectives, and detailing the actions
required to realize your dreams. Remember that things change in life, so your plans might too.
To try and match my activities to the words I said at my funeral, here is a draft of a life plan:
1. Define my Values and Passions:
Reflect on my core values and identify the passions that drive you. What aspects of life and the
world do you care deeply about? Understanding these foundations will guide your decisions.
2. Set Personal and Professional Goals:
Establish clear and achievable goals for my personal and professional life. Consider both short-
term and long-term objectives. These could range from personal development milestones to
career achievements.
3. Identify Areas for Positive Impact:
Explore opportunities for making a positive impact in my community and beyond. Identify social
or environmental causes that resonate with you. This could involve volunteer work, supporting
charitable organizations, or initiating your projects.
4. Develop a Learning Plan:
Cultivate a mindset of continuous learning. Set aside time for ongoing education, whether formal
or informal. Stay informed about global issues, emerging trends, and areas relevant to my
passions.
5. Build Meaningful Relationships:
Prioritize relationships with friends, family, and a broader community. Nurture connections that
align with my values and contribute to my personal growth. Meaningful relationships provide
support and can amplify the impact of my efforts.
6. Embrace Adaptability:
Acknowledge that plans may need adjustment. Life is unpredictable, and circumstances change.
Be open to adapting my goals and strategies while staying true to my core values.
7. Prioritize Well-Being:
Ensure a balance between my physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Incorporate habits and
routines that promote health and resilience, as a sustainable impact requires personal vitality.
8. Pursue Authenticity:
Strive to live authentically, aligning my actions with my values. Authenticity fosters a sense of
purpose and fulfillment, both personally and in the positive impact you seek to create.
9. Cultivate Resilience:
Recognize that setbacks and challenges are part of life. Cultivate resilience to navigate
difficulties and bounce back from adversity. Learn from experiences and use them to refine my
approach.
10. Regularly Review and Adjust:
Periodically review my life plan. Assess my progress, celebrate achievements, and adjust goals
as needed. This ongoing reflection ensures that your life plan remains relevant and aligned with
my evolving aspirations.
Remember that a life plan is a dynamic tool, not a rigid blueprint. It's meant to guide you on a
journey of personal and societal impact, fostering a life that aligns with the sentiments you hope
to be remembered for at my funeral.
TASK 1.5
TASK 2 INTRO
What does it mean to operationalize the right kind of leadership? There is a difference between
leadership and management. According to Peter Drucker, who is regarded as a father of modern
management, “Management is doing things right; leadership is doing the right things.” (Forbes
2020). Leadership is about change-making: identifying a situation, influencing others, and
changing the status quo. While leaders are “architects”, managers are “builders”. To read more
about the difference between a leader and a manger, take a look at this Forbes article Are You A
Manager Or A Leader? (forbes.com)
Transforming leadership theories and concepts into workable, tactical plans within an
organizational setting is the process of operationalizing effective leadership. It involves putting
theory into practice and making sure that leadership ideas result in observable, beneficial effects.
Below is a more thorough explanation of what it takes to put the proper type of leadership into
practice:
Alignment with Organizational Goals:
Ensure that leadership actions and decisions align with the overall goals and mission of the
organization. This involves understanding the strategic objectives and working to move the
organization toward those goals through effective leadership practices.
Implementation of Leadership Practices:
Put leadership theories into action by implementing specific leadership practices. This could
include fostering a positive organizational culture, promoting open communication, and
empowering team members. Leadership practices should be tailored to address the unique needs
and challenges of the organization.
Creation of a Supportive Environment:
Operationalizing leadership involves creating an environment where team members feel
supported, motivated, and empowered to contribute their best. This includes providing resources,
recognizing achievements, and addressing challenges in a constructive manner.
Development of Leadership Competencies:
Identify and cultivate the specific leadership competencies that are crucial for the organization's
success. This might involve training programs, mentoring, and coaching to enhance the
leadership skills of individuals within the organization.
Adaptation to Changing Circumstances:
Effective leadership requires the ability to adapt to changing circumstances. Operationalizing
leadership means being flexible and adjusting leadership approaches to address evolving
challenges, whether internal or external to the organization.
Integration of Leadership into Organizational Culture:
Leadership principles should become an integral part of the organizational culture. This involves
embedding leadership values into day-to-day operations, decision-making processes, and
interactions at all levels of the organization.
Measurement and Evaluation:
Establish metrics and key performance indicators (KPIs) to evaluate the effectiveness of
leadership practices. Regularly assess the impact of leadership initiatives on employee
satisfaction, productivity, and organizational success.
Continuous Improvement:
Leadership is an ongoing process, and operationalizing the right kind of leadership involves a
commitment to continuous improvement. Regularly review and refine leadership strategies based
on feedback, performance data, and changing organizational needs.
Strategic Decision-Making:
Leaders must engage in strategic decision-making that considers the long-term impact on the
organization. Operationalizing leadership means making decisions that align with the
organization's vision and contribute to its sustained success.
Ethical and Responsible Leadership:
Incorporate ethical considerations into leadership practices. Ensure that decisions and actions are
aligned with ethical standards, contributing to the development of a socially responsible and
sustainable organizational culture.
In essence, operationalizing the right kind of leadership involves turning leadership concepts into
practical, day-to-day actions that drive positive change, foster a healthy organizational culture,
and contribute to the achievement of organizational goals. It's about making leadership principles
a living reality within the organization.
TASK 2.1
Leadership Skills
How do leaders differ from managers? (Max 100 words)
Are leaders naturally born that way or can good leadership skills be acquired?
Inspired and visionary, leaders promote creativity and people-first strategies. Tasks and
procedures are under the management's supervision. Although certain qualities of a leader may
come naturally, good leaders can develop and acquire these abilities via study, experience, and
self-awareness. A person can learn and acquire effective leadership skills throughout time, as
demonstrated by the fact that leadership is a blend of innate traits and developed abilities.
TASK 2.2
Kectil Ten Points of Leadership
The Kectil Ten Points of Leadership are: Mission, Passion, Vision, Ethics, Compassion, Equality
and Respect, Good Governance and Management, Personal Presentation, Team Building, and
Measurable Accomplishments
For each of the Ten Points of Leadership, name a real person (either alive or deceased) who
exemplifies each trait in a good way, and a real person who exemplifies each trait in a bad way,
and say why. Don’t repeat the same person in the answers-provide ten examples of real people
who are positive examples and ten people who are negative examples.
It's difficult to give instances for every single item without worrying about them overlapping, but
based on their general leadership traits, I can suggest a variety of people who either fully embody
or fall short of the Kectil Ten Points of Leadership. Remember that perspectives about a person's
leadership may differ, and these are subjective evaluations.
Mission:
Positive Example: Malala Yousafzai - She has dedicated her life to advocating for girls'
education globally.
Negative Example: Joseph Stalin - Pursued political agendas at the expense of human rights and
lives.
Passion:
Positive Example: Elon Musk - Known for his relentless drive and passion for advancing
technology and space exploration.
Negative Example: Bernie Madoff - Passionate about personal wealth accumulation, but through
fraudulent means.
Vision:
Positive Example: Nelson Mandela - Envisioned a unified, democratic South Africa, promoting
reconciliation.
Negative Example: Adolf Hitler - Had a destructive vision driven by hate and intolerance.
Ethics:
Positive Example: Mahatma Gandhi - Advocated for nonviolent resistance and ethical conduct.
Negative Example: Enron's Kenneth Lay - Engaged in corporate fraud, violating ethical
standards.
Compassion:
Positive Example: Mother Teresa - Exemplified compassion through her selfless service to the
poor and sick.
Negative Example: Pol Pot - Showed little compassion during the Khmer Rouge regime, leading
to mass atrocities.
Equality and Respect:
Positive Example: Ruth Bader Ginsburg - Fought for gender equality and civil rights throughout
her career.
Negative Example: Saddam Hussein - Demonstrated a lack of respect for human rights and
equality.
Good Governance and Management:
Positive Example: Angela Merkel - Exhibited effective governance and crisis management as the
Chancellor of Germany.
Negative Example: Robert Mugabe - Oversaw a regime marked by corruption and economic
mismanagement.
Personal Presentation:
Positive Example: Michelle Obama - Presented herself with dignity, promoting education and
health initiatives.
Negative Example: Joseph McCarthy - Presented a destructive and divisive persona during the
Red Scare.
Team Building:
Positive Example: Steve Jobs - Built innovative teams at Apple, fostering creativity and
collaboration.
Negative Example: Jeffrey Skilling (Enron) - Contributed to a toxic corporate culture that led to
fraud and collapse.
Measurable Accomplishments:
Positive Example: Marie Curie - Achieved groundbreaking scientific accomplishments,
including Nobel Prizes.
Negative Example: Bernie Madoff (again) - Achieved financial success through a massive Ponzi
scheme.
Remember that assessing leadership is subjective, and individuals may have both positive and
negative aspects in different contexts. The examples provided are not exhaustive and are meant
to illustrate different leadership qualities.
TASK 2.3
This section examines leadership from a historical perspective and challenges you to emulate
some of the world’s greatest leaders including Dr Martin Luther King Jr, Mahatma Gandhi (the
Father of India), and Nelson Mandela, whose legacies live to this day.
Emulating the leadership qualities of historical figures like Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.,
Mahatma Gandhi, and Nelson Mandela can offer valuable insights into effective
leadership. Here are some key aspects of their leadership that you might consider
incorporating into your own leadership approach:
Commitment to Justice and Equality (Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.):
Embrace a commitment to justice and equality. Advocate for the rights and dignity of all
individuals, fostering a sense of inclusivity and fairness.
Nonviolent Resistance and Civil Disobedience (Mahatma Gandhi):
Adopt nonviolent methods to address conflicts and promote positive change. Embrace the
power of civil disobedience as a means of challenging injustice and inequality.
Courage in the Face of Adversity (Nelson Mandela):
Demonstrate resilience and courage in the face of challenges. Confront adversity with a
steadfast commitment to principles and values.
Inspirational Communication (Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.):
Develop strong communication skills to inspire and unite people. Craft messages that
resonate with your audience, promoting a shared vision and purpose.
Servant Leadership (Mahatma Gandhi):
Embrace a servant leadership mindset, prioritizing the well-being of others and fostering a
sense of community and shared responsibility.
Forgiveness and Reconciliation (Nelson Mandela):
Cultivate forgiveness and a spirit of reconciliation. Demonstrate the ability to move beyond
past conflicts and work towards healing and unity.
Strategic Vision (Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.):
Develop a strategic vision for positive change. Clearly articulate goals and actions that
align with your mission and contribute to broader societal progress.
Simplicity and Humility (Mahatma Gandhi):
Embrace simplicity and humility in your leadership style. Connect with people on a human
level, demonstrating authenticity and relatability.
Inclusivity and Collaboration (Nelson Mandela):
Foster inclusivity and collaboration within your team and community. Recognize the
strength that diversity brings and work towards common goals.
Resilient Optimism (Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.):
Cultivate resilient optimism even in challenging times. Maintain a positive outlook and
inspire hope in others, even when faced with adversity.
By studying and seeking to emulate these great leaders, you can gain valuable insights into
effective and impactful leadership. Remember that leadership is a continuous journey of
growth and learning, and incorporating these qualities into your own leadership approach
can contribute to positive change in your community and beyond.
TASK 2 QUESTION TO ANSWER
What are the biggest personal challenges you have in your life to becoming a true leader? For
example, are you shy or is it difficult to reach out to others? Is there a lack of time? Does gender,
discrimination, bias, family, politics, education, poverty, employment, or other such issues hold
you back? Is there a lack of identification of an issue you want to work on? Describe and discuss
(and you may not have the solution—which is fine! Identifying the issues are very important to
growth). (Max 300 words)
For individuals striving to become true leaders, challenges can be diverse and personal. Some
common obstacles include:
Communication Barriers:
Difficulty expressing ideas or connecting with others may hinder effective leadership.
Overcoming shyness or improving communication skills is crucial.
Time Constraints:
Balancing leadership aspirations with other commitments, such as work or family
responsibilities, can be challenging. Time management becomes a crucial skill to develop.
Societal Bias and Discrimination:
Gender, racial, or other biases may pose hurdles, requiring resilience and determination to
overcome societal barriers and prejudices.
Lack of Resources:
Limited access to education, financial resources, or opportunities may impede leadership
development. Seeking solutions to resource constraints is essential.
Identification of a Purpose:
Some individuals may struggle to identify a specific cause or issue they are passionate about.
Clarifying personal values can help align leadership goals with meaningful causes.
Family and Personal Obligations:
Family expectations and personal obligations might conflict with leadership pursuits. Striking a
balance and gaining support from loved ones becomes pivotal.
Workplace Challenges:
Workplace politics, discrimination, or lack of recognition may hinder professional growth.
Navigating workplace dynamics requires resilience and strategic thinking.
Educational Barriers:
Limited access to quality education can impact leadership development. Seeking alternative
learning paths or mentorship opportunities may be necessary.
Economic Hardships:
Poverty or financial instability can pose significant challenges. Addressing economic hardships
may involve acquiring new skills or seeking community support.
Political or Social Turbulence:
Living in politically or socially turbulent environments may present obstacles. Advocating for
positive change requires navigating complex situations and fostering resilience.
Acknowledging these challenges is a crucial step in personal growth and leadership
development. While solutions may not always be immediate, awareness and a commitment to
continuous improvement are key components of overcoming obstacles on the journey toward
becoming a true leader.
