Lesson 1: Becoming a leader

What is Leadership?

Despite being a seemingly straightforward question, the definition of leadership continues to puzzle people from all walks of life. It is easy to point out that leadership is not determined by seniority or one’s position within a company’s hierarchy. Merely holding a high-ranking executive role does not automatically confer leadership; it is an independent quality that cannot be guaranteed by a specific pay grade or position within the company.

For countless generations, Indigenous communities have played a vital role as stewards and custodians of the land and water, demonstrating exceptional leadership in ecosystem conservation. Their distinct perspectives, knowledge, rights, and responsibilities contribute to teaching, inspiring, and enhancing the delicate equilibrium of the natural world. First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples are essential leaders in their communities when it comes to housing strategies and policy creation.

The leadership and guidance provided by Indigenous peoples are of utmost importance in attaining Canada’s domestic and international biodiversity objectives, including the preservation of at least 25 percent of the country’s lands and oceans by the conclusion of 2025, and the creation of healthier habitats for endangered species. In the spirit of reconciliation, the Government of Canada actively partners with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities to jointly plan and establish protected areas under Indigenous leadership, while also supporting employment opportunities through initiatives such as Indigenous Guardians.

It is widely acknowledged that non-indigenous individuals should not seek out positions of power or leadership in Indigenous communities or take the lead in Indigenous political movements. Even when non-indigenous stand as allies, it is crucial that their roles and responsibilities are discussed and explored on how they can contribute and not overtake the situation. Arthur Manuel, a distinguished Indigenous leader who passed away in 2017, was both an elected First Nations chief (Neskonlith Indian Band) and a member of a tribal council. He was also a political activist and author who wrote the following before he passed:

“[the youth] see the band administration or establishment as part of the problem and not the solution… That is why we the people have to step outside the government system and demand real change from grassroots, anti-colonial organizations that do not accept any funding from the government. That is where our leadership must come from today. It cannot come from inside the system”… (Manuel, 2017, p. 137)

Indigenous leaders emphasize the significance of leadership that amplifies the voices of the community members. While many dedicated and respected leaders work within the Chief and Council system of government to achieve positive outcomes, this endeavor can present challenges. The hierarchical structure of the system often limits community members from having an official or legal say in decision-making, which contrasts with pre-colonial cultural practices. However, innovative leadership models have emerged in certain communities, such as incorporating hereditary chiefs or clan mothers who follow traditional leadership styles into the Chief and Council system. Other communities have found ways to blend contemporary and traditional leadership practices by electing chiefs from hereditary chief families, thereby drawing upon both systems’ strengths.

What is Indigenous Leadership?

There are many terms for Indigenous people as there are Indigenous languages. There is no universally accepted definition of “Indigenous,” but key characteristics include self-identification, distinct cultures, languages, and traditions, as well as minority status within post-colonial nations. Considering the wide range of Indigenous communities, leadership takes various forms. While there is no singular definition, Indigenous leaders worldwide share common values, qualities, and face similar challenges.

A strong leader possesses essential qualities that include knowledge and a firm sense of identity, rooted in a deep understanding of the land and community history. Confidence in one’s Indigenous identity, coupled with adherence to traditional practices and respect for others, Indigenous culture, and oneself, further strengthens leadership. Cultivating positive relationships within and beyond the community is crucial, as it allows leaders to bridge divides. Availability for effective communication and mentorship plays a vital role, while traits such as gratitude, humility, and bravery contribute significantly to effective leadership.

Values

Indigenous leadership structures worldwide are guided by shared core values that shape their approaches. Four key examples of these values include decolonization/indigenization, bridge-building, community service, and sustainability. These principles serve as guiding principles for Indigenous leaders in their efforts to create positive change and empower their communities.

Challenges of Indigenous Leadership

Indigenous leaders confront a multitude of challenges, including those common to leaders in general, as well as unique obstacles specific to Indigenous contexts. Limited access to adequate funding and resources, the lasting impact of generational trauma, and the delicate balance between preserving traditional values in a rapidly evolving world create complexities in leadership. However, Indigenous communities worldwide have developed programs aimed at supporting current leaders and mentoring future ones. The Indigenous Leadership Initiative, situated in Ontario, Canada, serves as an exemplary initiative empowering Indigenous organizations, communities, governments, and Nations by providing assistance in governance, land use planning, and resource management.

Types of Leadership

My Respected Leader

Think about a person whom you admire and respect as a leader. They could be someone in your community, an elder, a knowledge keeper, relative or someone from history.
Then answer the following questions.

1. What has this person done to show or demonstrate that they are a good leader?
2. What Indigenous leadership style do they possess that you would like to have or gain?
3. What are three things/qualities that you know make them a good leader?
4. In what ways are you like them?
5. In what ways can you learn to be more like them?

An Indigenous Leadership Journey

Robinson, E. (2017, June 5). An indigenous journey to leadership | eddy robinson | tedxstmarycsschool. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0xxg5pJdxUY

The Enneagram

The Enneagram is a system of personality typing that describes patterns in how people interpret the world and manage their emotions. The Enneagram describes nine personality types and maps each of these types on a nine-pointed diagram which helps to illustrate how the types relate to one another.

Type One – THE REFORMER

Individuals who identify as “Ones” possess a strong moral compass and are committed to behaving ethically. They are often educators, activists, and change-makers who strive to better their surroundings, but are held back by their fear of making mistakes. While they tend to be well-organized and systematic in their approach, this can sometimes lead them to be overly critical and perfectionistic. They struggle with resentment and impatience. At their best, ‘Ones’ are wise, discerning, and noble, and may even demonstrate moral heroism.

Their greatest fear is to become corrupt or base, while their primary desire is to embody integrity and balance. Those who lean toward the Nine-wing of the Enneagram may be dubbed “The Idealist,” while Ones who tend toward the Two-wing are labeled “The Advocate.” Regardless of the wing, ‘Ones’ are driven by a desire to be right, to constantly improve their situation, and to maintain consistency with their values. At times, their ultimate goal is to prove themselves to others and avoid harsh criticism.

Key Motivations: Want to be right, to strive higher and improve everything, to be consistent with their ideals, to justify themselves, to be beyond criticism so as not to be condemned by anyone.

Type Two – THE HELPER

Those who identify as ‘Twos’ possess genuine empathy, warmth, and sincerity. They are friendly, generous, and selfless, but may sometimes become sentimental, flattering, and overly eager to please. Their intentions are pure, and they crave closeness with others, but may unwittingly end up doing things for others merely to feel needed. They struggle with possessiveness and neglecting their own needs. At their best, Twos exhibit unconditional love and selflessness.

The fundamental fear of ‘Twos’ is being deemed unloved or unworthy of love. Their ultimate desire is to feel love from others. When a Two is influenced by their One-wing, they may become known as “The Servant.” Likewise, those Twos who are swayed by their Three-wing are dubbed “The Host/Hostess.”

Type Two is commonly known as “The Helper” because these individuals are typically the most genuinely helpful to others, or the most invested in seeing themselves as helpful. Their generosity and willingness to go out of their way for others make them feel that their lives are rich with meaning. Tending to prioritize the finer things in life, such as love, closeness, sharing, family, and friendship, Twos have a warm heart and a genuine desire to do good.

Key Motivations: Want to be loved, to express their feelings for others, to be needed and appreciated, to get others to respond to them, to vindicate their claims about themselves.

Type Three – THE ACHIEVER

Type Three individuals exude self-assurance, charm, and attractiveness. They are ambitious, energetic, and competent, but may also be overly concerned with their status and advancement. While diplomatic and poised, Threes may struggle with their image and worry about how others perceive them. Workaholism and competitiveness are common challenges. At their best, Threes demonstrate self-acceptance and authenticity, and serve as role models for others.

The fundamental fear of a Three is being viewed as worthless, while their ultimate desire is to feel valuable and worthwhile. Those with a Two-wing may be known as “The Charmer,” while those influenced by their Four-wing are labeled “The Professional.”

Type Three is commonly identified as “The Achiever” because healthy Threes genuinely achieve great things in their lives. They are the “stars” of human nature and are often admired for their personal accomplishments and graciousness. Successful and well-liked, Threes become living role models for others to emulate. They believe in developing their talents and capacities and recognize the value of investing in their own self-development. They strive to ensure that their lives are a success, whether that success be defined in terms of material wealth, academic attainment, public fame, or other cultural achievements.

As children, Threes learned which activities were valued by their parents or peers and excelled in those activities. They learned how to cultivate and develop the traits that would make them attractive and impressive. Ultimately, Threes hold an innate desire to be somebody noteworthy in their families and communities and strive to perform in ways that attract praise and positive attention.

Key Motivations: Want to be affirmed, to distinguish themselves from others, to have attention, to be admired, and to impress others.

Type Four – THE INDIVIDUALIST

Type Four individuals are characterized by their self-awareness, sensitivity, and reserve. They are creative, emotionally honest, and personal, but may also be prone to moodiness and self-consciousness. Their tendency to withhold themselves from others stems from feeling vulnerable and flawed, resulting in occasional feelings of disdain and disconnection from ordinary ways of living. Self-indulgence, self-pity, and melancholy are common challenges for Fours. At their best, Fours are inspired and highly creative, continually renewing themselves through the transformation of their experiences.

The essential fear of Fours is that they lack identity and personal significance, while their ultimate goal is to find themselves and create an identity. Those influenced by a Three-wing may be labeled “The Aristocrat,” while those with a Five-wing are known as “The Bohemian.”

Type Four is referred to as “The Individualist” because Fours maintain their identity by seeing themselves as fundamentally different from others. They believe that nobody can understand or love them adequately because they possess unique, one-of-a-kind gifts, yet also possess unique disadvantages or flaws. As a result, they are highly aware of their personal differences and deficiencies.

Healthy Fours are honest with themselves and own all of their feelings, contradictions, and emotional conflicts without denying or whitewashing them. They are not afraid to confront their true selves – including painful or shameful aspects – in order to understand their emotional history and discover their true selves. These abilities enable Fours to endure suffering with a quiet strength and process painful experiences that might overwhelm other types.

Despite feeling different from others, Fours do not wish to be alone and deeply long to connect with people who understand them and their emotions. They may feel socially awkward or self-conscious, and if they cannot find validation, they become insistent individualists, doing everything on their own terms. Fours often struggle with a negative self-image and low self-esteem, attempting to compensate by cultivating an idealized self-image or Fantasy Self. However, this idealized self-image can lead to shame when their actual abilities fall short.

One of the biggest challenges Fours face is letting go of past hurts and negative emotions. They may become so attached to longing and disappointment that they cannot recognize the treasures in their lives. Fours struggle to cultivate a stable, reliable identity because they base their identity largely on their emotions and attempt to hold onto certain feelings while rejecting others.

Key Motivations: Want to express themselves and their individuality, to create and surround themselves with beauty, to maintain certain moods and feelings, to withdraw to protect their self-image, to take care of emotional needs before attending to anything else, to attract a “rescuer.”

Type Five – THE INVESTIGATOR

Type Five individuals are characterized by their alertness, insightfulness, and curiosity. They have the ability to concentrate and focus on developing complex ideas and skills, making them independent, innovative, and inventive. However, they may become preoccupied with their thoughts and imaginary constructs, leading to a state of detachment that also manifests as high-strung intensity. Eccentricity, isolation, and nihilism are common challenges for Fives. At their best, Fives are visionary pioneers who view the world in an entirely new way and are often ahead of their time.

The essential fear of a Five is being useless, helpless, or incapable, while their ultimate desire is to be capable and competent. Those influenced by a Four-wing may be known as “The Iconoclast,” while those with a Six-wing are labeled “The Problem Solver.”

Type Five is referred to as “The Investigator” because Fives strive to understand why things are the way they are. They want to comprehend how the world works, whether it is the cosmos, microscopic world, or the inner world of their imaginations. Fives are always searching, asking questions, and delving into things in depth. They reject received opinions and doctrines and instead feel a strong need to test most assumptions for themselves.

Fives often spend a lot of time observing and contemplating, whether it’s listening to the sounds of wind, taking notes on the activities in an anthill in their backyard, or exploring other unique and overlooked areas. Investigating “unknown territory” allows Fives to have a niche for themselves that no one else occupies. They believe that developing this niche is the best way that they can attain independence and confidence.

Fives need to have at least one area in which they have expertise to feel capable and connected with the world for their own security and self-esteem. They develop an intense focus on mastering something that has captured their interest, whether it’s mathematics, rock and roll, classical music, car mechanics, or exploring a world entirely created in their imagination. The areas that Fives explore do not depend on social validation, and they fear that their ideas might be too conventional if others agree with them too readily.

While history is full of famous Fives who have overturned conventional ways of understanding or doing things, many Fives become lost in the byzantine complexities of their own thought processes, leading to eccentricity and social isolation.

Key Motivations: Want to possess knowledge, to understand the environment, to have everything figured out as a way of defending the self from threats from the environment.

Type Six – THE LOYALIST

Type Six individuals are committed and security-oriented – they are reliable, hard-working, responsible, and trustworthy. They excel at troubleshooting and can foresee problems, fostering cooperation. However, they may become defensive, evasive, and anxious, running on stress and complaining about it. They can be cautious and indecisive yet also reactive, defiant, and rebellious. Self-doubt and suspicion are common challenges for Sixes. At their best, they are internally stable and self-reliant, courageously championing themselves and others.

The essential fear of a Six is being without support and guidance, while their ultimate desire is to have security and support. Those influenced by a Five-wing may be known as “The Defender,” while those with a Seven-wing are labeled “The Buddy.”

Type Six is referred to as “The Loyalist” because they are the most loyal of all the personality types to their friends and beliefs. Sixes will go down with the ship and hold onto relationships far longer than most other types. They are also loyal to ideas, systems, and beliefs, even if they are rebellious, anti-authoritarian, or revolutionary.

The reason Sixes are so loyal to others is because they do not want to be abandoned and left without support, which is their Basic Fear. As a result, they rely on structures, allies, beliefs, and supports outside themselves for guidance to survive. Sixes are aware of their anxieties and are always looking for ways to construct “social security” bulwarks against them.

Sixes struggle with contacting their own inner guidance and lack confidence in their own minds and judgments, which makes it difficult to make important decisions. They fear being controlled, but also fear taking responsibility that might put them “in the line of fire.” Sixes are always looking for ways to find or create solid ground, wanting to feel that something in their lives is clear-cut and stable.

They build a network of trust over a background of unsteadiness and fear, becoming attached to explanations or positions that seem to explain their situation. Once Sixes find a trustworthy belief, they do not easily question it, nor want others to do so. They go to great lengths to maintain connections with people who act as a sounding board, mentor, or regulator for their emotional reactions and behavior.

Key Motivations: Want to have security, to feel supported by others, to have certitude and reassurance, to test the attitudes of others toward them, to fight against anxiety and insecurity.

Type Seven – THE ENTHUSIAST

Type Seven individuals are extroverted, optimistic, versatile, and spontaneous. They are playful, high-spirited, and practical, but can also become over-extended, scattered, and undisciplined. They constantly seek new and exciting experiences but can become distracted and exhausted by staying on the go. Impatience and impulsiveness are common challenges for Sevens. At their best, they focus their talents on worthwhile goals, becoming appreciative, joyous, and satisfied.

The essential fear of a Seven is being deprived and in pain, while their ultimate desire is to be satisfied, content, and have their needs fulfilled. Those influenced by a Six-wing may be known as “The Entertainer,” while those with an Eight-wing are labeled “The Realist.”

Type Seven is referred to as “The Enthusiast” because they approach life with curiosity, optimism, and a sense of adventure. They have a quality best described as “chutzpah” – a brash “nerviness.” Sevens have quick, agile minds and can be exceptionally fast learners, making them gifted at brainstorming and synthesizing information. However, their wide-ranging curiosity and ability to learn quickly can create problems for them, as it becomes difficult for them to decide what to do with themselves.

Sevens cope with their anxiety of not knowing what to do by keeping their minds busy and staying on the go, searching for more stimulation and experiences. They use the “trial and error” method, trying everything to make sure they know what is best. They do not feel that they can find what they really want in life, so they tend to try everything as a substitute. Sevens can make worse choices because everything is experienced indirectly, through the filter of their fast-paced mental activity. As a result, they end up anxious, frustrated, and enraged.

On the positive side, Sevens are optimistic, exuberant, and naturally cheerful people. They remind us of the pure pleasure of existence. When they are balanced within themselves, their joy and enthusiasm for life naturally affect everyone around them.

Key Motivations: Want to maintain their freedom and happiness, to avoid missing out on worthwhile experiences, to keep themselves excited and occupied, to avoid and discharge pain.

Type Eight – THE CHALLENGER

Type Eight individuals are self-confident, strong, and assertive. They are protective, resourceful, straight-talking, and decisive, but can also be ego-centric and domineering. Eights feel they must control their environment, especially people, and can become confrontational and intimidating. They typically have problems with their tempers and allowing themselves to be vulnerable. At their best, they use their strength to improve others’ lives, becoming heroic, magnanimous, and inspiring.

The essential fear of an Eight is being harmed or controlled by others, while their ultimate desire is to protect themselves and be in control of their own life and destiny. Those influenced by a Seven-wing may be known as “The Maverick,” while those with a Nine-wing are labeled “The Bear.”

Type Eight is referred to as “The Challenger” because they enjoy taking on challenges, both for themselves and for others. They are charismatic and have the physical and psychological capacities to persuade others to follow them into all kinds of endeavors, from starting a company to making peace. Eights have enormous willpower and vitality and feel most alive when exercising these capacities in the world.

Eights do not want to be controlled or allow others to have power over them, regardless of the power type. They want to be independent, resist being indebted to anyone and sometimes refuse to conform to social convention. They go about their business with a determined, steely attitude that can be awe-inspiring and intimidating to others.

Although Eights fear physical harm to some extent, their fear of being disempowered or controlled in some way is more crucial. They use physical strength to protect their feelings and keep others at an emotional distance. However, beneath their tough exterior, Eights are vulnerable and fear emotional rejection. They have trouble admitting their vulnerability to themselves and others and attempt to defend themselves by rejecting others first.

When emotionally healthy, Eights have a resourceful, “can-do” attitude and a steady inner drive. They are authoritative and naturally lead with a commanding presence. Their groundedness gives them abundant common sense and the ability to be decisive. They use their talents and fortitude to create a better world for everyone in their lives.

Key Motivations: Want to be self-reliant, to prove their strength and resist weakness, to be important in their world, to dominate the environment, and to stay in control of their situation.

Type Nine – THE PEACEMAKER

Type Nine individuals are accepting, trusting, and stable. They are usually creative, optimistic, and supportive but can also be too willing to go along with others to keep the peace. Nines want everything to go smoothly and be without conflict but can tend towards complacency, simplifying problems, and minimizing anything upsetting. They typically have problems with inertia and stubbornness. At their best, they are able to bring people together and heal conflicts, becoming indomitable and all-embracing.

The essential fear of a Nine is loss and separation, while their ultimate desire is to have inner stability and peace of mind. Those influenced by an Eight-wing may be known as “The Referee,” while those with a One-wing are labeled “The Dreamer.”

The type Nine is called “The Peacemaker” because they are devoted to the quest for internal and external peace for themselves and others. They are spiritual seekers who yearn for connection with the cosmos and other people, striving to establish peace and harmony in their world. Nines work to maintain their peace of mind while also finding balance with their instinctual energies.

Nines may misidentify themselves as head or feeling types, but they are potentially grounded in the physical world and their own bodies. However, to compensate for being out of touch with their instincts, Nines often retreat into their minds and emotional fantasies. When in balance with their Instinctive Center, Nines have tremendous elemental power and personal magnetism, but when their energy is out of balance, they can become disengaged and remote.

Nines demonstrate a universal temptation to ignore the disturbing aspects of life and seek peace and comfort by “numbing out.” They respond to pain and suffering by attempting to live in a state of premature peacefulness, but must learn to face life’s paradoxes and tensions rather than escape into premature enlightenment or the divine. Nines must resist the urge to deny the dark side of life and remember that “the only way out is through.”

Key Motivations: Want to create harmony in their environment, to avoid conflicts and tension, to preserve things as they are, to resist whatever would upset or disturb them.

Try this free online quiz to find your Enneagram type

https://www.truity.com/test/enneagram-personality-test

Qualities for Indigenous leadership can also be described as:
Knowledge and a self-assured identity are very important. This includes knowing the
history of the land and community. Good leaders are also confident in their Indigenous
identity. Understanding and following traditional practices are a part of this, as well as
having respect for others, Indigenous culture, and self-respect. Good relationships within
the community and outside of it support the leader’s role as a bridge-builder. To facilitate
strong communication and mentorship, good leaders are available. Gratitude, humility,
and bravery are important traits, as well.

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Sources

Manuel, A. (2017). The Reconciliation Manifesto: Recovering the land, rebuilding the economy. Toronto, ON: James Lorimer and Company.

Robinson, E. (2017, June 5). An indigenous journey to leadership | eddy robinson | tedxstmarycsschool. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0xxg5pJdxUY