Embracing Authentic Leadership: AAI Scholars Reflect on Growth and Self-Awareness

On February 22nd, 2025, the Ashinaga Africa Initiative (AAI) Tsudoi brought together Scholars for a transformative three-hour coaching session focused on Whole Person Leadership. Led by Motoki Asai, founder and director of an ICF-certified coaching school and an experienced leadership coach, the session was an opportunity for scholars to reflect deeply on their own leadership potential and personal growth.

The session opened with a simple yet profound question posed by Bernadettah: Who am I? Why am I like this? This invitation to introspection set the stage for an afternoon of exploration and discovery. Asai emphasized that leadership is not about what one does but why they do it. He encouraged Scholars to embrace their authentic selves, underscoring the idea that true leadership shines through when we are genuine and true to who we are.

Throughout the session, Scholars engaged in interactive discussions and reflective exercises that explored the essence of leadership in today’s rapidly changing world. Asai introduced the concept of Total Leadership, encouraging participants to embrace creativity, lead with integrity by respecting the whole person—not just their work—and to lead authentically, by being true to themselves rather than trying to fit into someone else’s mold. A particularly thought-provoking framework introduced during the session was the idea of the Green Cape versus the Red Cape. The Green Cape mindset encourages focusing on growth, potential, and opportunities, while the Red Cape approach focuses on problems and obstacles. This reflective exercise allowed scholars to consider their own leadership tendencies and how their mindset could influence their ability to lead effectively.

The session also fostered meaningful dialogue among the Scholars, who actively participated by sharing personal experiences and posing insightful questions. One participant asked, “Is the Green Cape or Red Cape a way to achieve leadership?” Asai responded by emphasizing that leadership is not a position but rather the influence one has on others—it’s about how people choose to follow you and finding your own authentic way of leading. Questions about handling difficult relationships and fostering trust were also raised, prompting Asai to discuss the importance of understanding others and creating an environment of mutual respect and trust. In addressing how to support a friend struggling with confidence, Asai highlighted the importance of patience and empathy, recognizing that personal growth is often a long and gradual process.

As the session progressed, Scholars were invited to reflect on the qualities that make them the best version of themselves. Through brainstorming exercises, they identified actions they could take to make a positive impact on others and strengthen their leadership abilities. The session concluded with a powerful reminder from Asai: “Reflection is an ongoing process that takes time. Stay self-aware, keep listening to others, and strive to become the best version of yourself—as a person and as a leader.”

The impact of the session was clear from the feedback received. Many Scholars highlighted the importance of self-awareness as a core leadership trait, with one Scholar reflecting, “Leadership isn’t about titles—it’s about being proactive, collaborative, and staying true to who you are.” The Whole Person Leadership session proved to be more than just a lesson in leadership—it became a space for AAI Scholars to reflect, grow, and envision the leaders they aspire to be, both within their communities and beyond.