Embracing Innovation, As a Young Leader

In a world where change is the only constant, the ability to innovate isn’t just a nice-to-have; rather, I argue, it’s a must-have. For instance, think about the leaders who inspire you. Chances are, they’re the ones who think outside the box and aren’t afraid to shake things up, especially during challenging times. I’m lucky to have worked with one myself. As you step into today’s fast-paced landscape, it’s essential to understand why being an innovative leader can set you apart.

So, you may ask, what exactly does it mean to be an innovative leader? Personally, at its core, I would like to think innovative leadership is all about embracing creativity and being open to new ideas. It means not only coming up with fresh solutions or approaches to typical challenges we face in the non-profit sector but also inspiring your team to do the same. Innovative leaders are adaptable, willing to take risks, and are often characterised by their curiosity. They ask questions, challenge the status quo, and are not afraid to explore uncharted territories. So, if I were to ask you, what are you currently curious about? If there were no limitations, and no funding challenges, what would you explore???

Organisations that fail to innovate risk becoming obsolete. Look at organisations like Apple or Netflix; their success stems from constant evolution and the ability to anticipate market needs. Now compare them to organisations such as Kodak, Blackberry, or Nokia (if you are finding yourself asking what is Nokia or who is Nokia, or why is Nokia???? My point exactly).  Innovative leaders can identify opportunities where others see obstacles, turning challenges into growth and the beauty of it is that we all have this ability. If COVID-19 taught us anything at all, is that anything is possible. Think about how many organisations are now hybrid.

When you embrace innovation, you’re not just keeping pace with change; you’re leading the charge. This mindset not only helps you stand out but also positions you, your team, and your organisation for long-term success.

Developing an innovative mindset isn’t something that happens overnight; it takes practice and dedication. Truth be told whenever I thought of innovation, I used to imagine a couple of dudes, with glasses working at Meta or X and in their spare time gaming. I used to think it was something that one is born with, like it was one of those, “it’s either you have it, or you don’t”. However, I have come to find that we are all capable, especially when we dedicate ourselves to the process.

Here are some tips to help you get started (yay):

1. Embrace Failure: Fear of failure can stifle creativity. Instead, view setbacks as learning opportunities. Every failure is a stepping stone toward innovation.
2. Stay Curious:Cultivate a habit of asking questions. The more you seek knowledge and diverse perspectives, the more ideas you will generate. Work with your team and your social capital.
3. Encourage Experimentation: Don’t shy away from trying new approaches. Whether it’s a new project management tool or a different way of brainstorming, experimentation can lead to groundbreaking ideas. Trust the process!

As a leader in the non-profit sector, one of your many responsibilities is to foster an environment where creativity can thrive. Here are some practical ways to encourage innovation within your team:

• Create Safe Spaces for Ideas: Encourage team members to share their thoughts without fear of criticism. A culture of psychological safety enables everyone to contribute.
• Celebrate Creativity: Recognise and reward innovative ideas, even if they don’t always lead to success. This encourages a continuous flow of creative thinking.
• Diversity Matters: Build a diverse team with different backgrounds and experiences. Varied perspectives lead to richer discussions and innovative solutions. Yes, this can include your beneficiaries and your alumni network.

Last few words from an old man, being an innovative leader is essential in today’s rapidly changing world. By cultivating an innovative mindset and fostering a culture of creativity within your team, you position yourself and your organisation for success. So, take the plunge already! Step out of your comfort zone, embrace new ideas, and lead with innovation at the forefront. The future is yours to shape it as you wish. Go ahead, Innovate.

Skhumbuzo Moodaley Mpisane is the Programme Lead for the DGMT Innovation Fellowship