Transformational leadership in non-profits is concerned not only with outcomes, but as Kouzes & Posner point out, it is also concerned with perpetuity through systemic health within the organization. This article renders a brief overview of the components of transformational leadership.
Transformational Leadership Defined
Kendra Cherry defines transformational leadership as "a type of leadership style that leads to positive changes in those who follow. Transformational leaders are generally energetic, enthusiastic and passionate. Not only are these leaders concerned and involved in the process; they are also focused on helping every member of the group succeed as well." As Straker points out, transformational leaders care as much about the people with whom they are working as they do about the project that they are working upon. Transformational leaders view a project as an opportunity to grow and strengthen the people that they are privileged to lead and to work with.
Transformational Leadership and Ubuntu
Ubuntu simply means, "I am, by virtue of the many." Ubuntu is an African philosophy that believes our identity is tied up in the identity of others. It is a very communal perspective on life and has powerful implications for leadership. An Ubuntu leader believes that when the people that he or she is leading are healthy and uplifted, the leader will be enriched, healthy and uplifted. Imagine leadership that has an ubuntu perspective on life, and you have transformative leadership.