Los Angeles Area University President Offers Perspectives on Mandela, Martin Luther King, Jr. and Their Visionary Leadership Lessons of Empowered Ideas, Risk, and Role-Modeling

    LOS ANGELES, CA, January 18, 2014 /24-7PressRelease/ -- The recent passing of Nelson Mandela on December 5, 2013, and in observance of the Martin Luther King, Jr. national holiday on January 20, 2014 in conjunction with the upcoming Black History Month during February, we bridge both years with reflections on two leaders who changed history.

How does this happen and what sets apart these seemingly ordinary men into extraordinary visionary leaders? According to Dr. Luis Calingo, President, Woodbury University, "It takes only one person who has the courage to publicly express a hopeful vision against injustice." He goes on to detail in his blog "Visionary Leadership" that Mandela and King Jr. exemplified this trait. "These individuals are often catapulted into leadership roles due to their ideas which resonate with the masses."

Dr. Calingo lists three aspects of Nelson Mandela's life that were instrumental in him achieving his lifelong goal of freeing South Africa of apartheid rule. "First, he had a vision that guided him throughout 'the struggle.' Second, he had the willingness to take risks, which had set him apart from other freedom fighters. Third, his ability to role-model leadership caused others to support him and join the struggle."

1) Start with a vision
2) Be a risk taker
3) Role-model leadership

Dr. Calingo found the same three Visionary Leadership skills in the life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. "When he delivered his 'I Have a Dream' speech, he declared 'I have a dream,' not 'I have a plan' or 'I have a strategy.' He took risks and led citizens to achieve that vision."

Dr. Calingo goes on to state that this same Visionary Leadership can be found and needs to be encouraged across businesses and organizations of all types. Read more about "Reflections on Excellence: Visionary Leadership" and connect with Dr. Calingo on LinkedIn

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