On May 24th, 2024, Miva Open University welcomed Tola Odeyemi, Postmaster General and CEO of the Nigerian Postal Service (NIPOST) and a distinguished leader in technology and public policy, for an enlightening Masterclass on “Adaptive Leadership and Change Management”. Tola brought her wealth of experience spanning over 15 years in both public and private sectors across Africa.
Adaptive Leadership, as Tola eloquently defined it, goes beyond traditional leadership roles. It involves mobilizing people to tackle complex challenges and navigate uncertain environments. “Adaptive leadership focuses on complex situations where traditional methods may not suffice,” Tola explained, emphasizing its relevance in today’s rapidly evolving world.
Drawing parallels between leadership and influence, Tola addressed a common misconception. “The advent of social media has broadened the definition of leadership. Influencers, like leaders, aim to influence people towards a goal,” she noted. Whether leading an organization or engaging followers on social platforms, both require a strategic mission and goal orientation.
Tola illuminated her discussion with a poignant example from Nelson Mandela’s life. “Nelson Mandela’s journey from activist to president exemplifies adaptive leadership,” she shared. Mandela’s ability to shift perspectives during his 27-year imprisonment for anti-apartheid activities highlighted key elements of adaptive leadership: emotional intelligence, resilience, courage, and a commitment to inclusive change. “He transformed the narrative from oppressor versus oppressed to a unified struggle for liberation,” Tola explained. Mandela’s approach, including the establishment of Truth and Reconciliation Committees, showcased his adaptive mindset. “He embraced change, fostered collaboration, and upheld resilience in pursuit of a unified South Africa,” she added.
Addressing how to measure adaptive leadership’s effectiveness, Tola emphasized practical outcomes. “Effective adaptive leadership manifests in tangible changes: improved productivity, enhanced customer satisfaction, and sustained innovation,” she articulated. Beyond metrics, she stressed the importance of inclusivity and engagement within organizations. “Feedback and inclusivity are vital for adaptive leaders to gauge their impact and adapt strategies accordingly,” Tola affirmed.
Sharing a personal anecdote, Tola reflected on her own leadership challenges. “Upon assuming a new role amidst organizational change, emotional intelligence guided my approach,” she recounted. Instead of reacting to initial resistance with retaliation, Tola chose collaboration and empathy. “Understanding the fear of the unknown among team members enabled me to foster a cohesive environment,” she shared.
Tola Odeyemi’s Masterclass on Adaptive Leadership and Change Management left attendees inspired and equipped with practical insights. Her blend of theoretical knowledge and real-world examples underscored the importance of flexibility, empathy, and strategic foresight in leadership. As Miva Open University continues to empower future leaders, Tola’s session serves as a guiding light for adaptive leadership in today’s dynamic world.
For those who missed the session, the recording is available on Miva Open University’s YouTube channel (@mivauniversity). Stay tuned for more transformative masterclasses and educational opportunities.
For further details on Miva Open University’s programmes and admissions, visit www.miva.university or contact our Admissions Advisor on WhatsApp: +234 913 230 0000.
