As Monday dawns in Cameroon, the morning mist over Mount Fako and the lively chatter in Kumba’s markets remind us of our rich cultural heritage—a wellspring of leadership wisdom. At Lead from the Heart, we’re diving deeper into May’s theme, Wisdom – Leading with Cultural Intelligence, inspired by Kwame Nkrumah’s words: “Culture is not an ornament; it is the foundation of all human values.” This week, let’s ignite your leadership with cultural wisdom, setting goals to foster inclusion and impact, whether you’re in Yaoundé or connecting globally.
Cultural intelligence (CQ) is about embracing diverse perspectives to lead authentically. In Cameroon, where languages like Fulfulde and pidgin bridge communities, CQ means listening as intently as a village elder during a palaver. Globally, it’s the skill that helps a manager in Douala align a multinational team. Start this week with a spark of inspiration: your cultural roots are a leadership superpower. Consider how values like solidarity, seen in Bamileke savings groups, can shape a collaborative workplace. This Monday, let’s set a goal to weave one cultural principle into your leadership.
Reflect on a moment when culture shaped your decisions. Perhaps you resolved a team dispute by prioritising group harmony, a nod to our communal ethos. Globally, leaders like Wangari Maathai used cultural wisdom—drawing on Kikuyu respect for nature—to drive change. How can you mirror this? Set a specific goal: this week, observe one cultural dynamic in your team, like how greetings build trust, and use it to strengthen bonds. For example, could a shared meal, common in Cameroonian gatherings, inspire your next team meeting?
To make this goal actionable, try this: dedicate 10 minutes daily to notice cultural cues. If you’re leading remotely, ask a colleague about their traditions, much like swapping stories at a Limbe fish market. This builds empathy, a cornerstone of CQ. At Lead from the Heart, our retreats, like the Vision Quest (January 2026, in Limbe), help leaders practice these skills through immersive activities. By embracing cultural wisdom, you’ll not only motivate your team but also create a ripple effect of inclusion.
Globally, companies like Unilever thrive by embedding local values into their strategies, such as respecting African time in scheduling. In Cameroon, you might adapt a rigid deadline culture to allow for relational check-ins, balancing efficiency with connection. This week, challenge yourself to lead with intention. Journal your goal: “This week, I’ll use [specific cultural value, e.g., respect] to [action, e.g., improve team trust].” Track your progress by Friday to see how CQ transforms your leadership.
As Cameroon’s vibrant spirit fuels our week, let’s commit to leading with cultural wisdom. Whether you’re navigating local markets or global boardrooms, your heritage is your guide. Join us at our Leadership Breakfast (June 7, 2025, Buea, 10,000 CFA) to explore CQ further. Start small, stay curious, and watch your leadership shine.
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©Silas Achu
