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Great leaders drive change by envisioning the future and inspiring passion. Such leaders create clear goals, support their team, and trust their followers (Manning & Curtis, 2022). Leaders make change happen by encouraging teamwork and creativity. They value each person's contribution, balance individual and group success, and understand the organization's needs. They empower others to make decisions, freeing time to focus on the big picture. Through their guidance and trust, leaders foster a culture of growth, adaptability, and success within the organization (Manning & Curtis, 2022).

Influential leaders have many characteristics that make them effective. Such leaders demonstrate strong communication skills and empathy. Clear communication ensures that the organization's vision and goals are effectively conveyed to the team, fostering understanding and alignment (Manning & Curtis, 2022). In addition, empathy enables leaders to establish personal connections with their team members by comprehending their viewpoints, worries, and requirements. Leaders build trust and rapport by listening actively and showing empathy, creating a supportive environment where team members feel valued and understood (Manning & Curtis, 2022). Empathy enables leaders to make more informed decisions considering everyone's well-being and perspectives.

Leaders can use strategies to empower others to cope, adapt, and embrace change. One effective approach involves cultivating an environment where learning is ongoing and encouraged (Manning & Curtis, 2022). Leaders can achieve this by providing various learning opportunities, including training programs or workshops to enhance employees' skills and knowledge. By investing in such development, leaders enable individuals to acquire the necessary tools and competencies to navigate change effectively and confidently.

Another leadership strategy is empowering others by fostering open communication and collaboration (Manning & Curtis, 2022). Creating channels for honest dialogue and feedback allows team members to share concerns, ideas, and insights regarding change. Leaders demonstrate trust and respect for followers' perspectives by actively involving employees in decision-making and problem-solving (Manning & Curtis, 2022). By embracing such a collaborative approach, the quality of decision-making is elevated, nurturing a supportive atmosphere where individuals feel valued and empowered to contribute to the organization's success amidst periods of change.

Nelson Mandela stands out as a prominent example of a leader who effectively fostered change while empowering others along the way. During the chaotic time of South Africa's apartheid era, Mandela advocated for a vision of unity and equality (United Nations, 2020). His leadership was marked by resilience as he endured years of imprisonment and a commitment to reconciliation over revenge upon his release. Mandela's inclusive approach empowered people from all backgrounds to participate in building a new, democratic South Africa (United Nations, 2020). Through his unwavering dedication to justice and forgiveness, Mandela left an indelible mark on history, inspiring leaders worldwide to enact positive change through empathy and inclusion.