In an age of polarisation, spiritual intelligence is emerging as a transformative leadership competency rooted in Ubuntu, writes DR PHYLLIS NDLOVU, CEO of Kisima Psychological Services.

In an increasingly polarised world, spiritual intelligence stands out as a much-needed competency that fosters interconnectedness and a profound sense of “I am because you are” or Ubuntu, a philosophy South Africans have embraced for generations.

As a leader, spiritual intelligence is grounded in three key dimensions: having a personal sense of purpose in your role, finding meaning in life experiences and reflecting on your interconnection with others. It has been suggested that spiritual intelligence is the pinnacle of human development. It follows the evolution from physical intelligence (mastery over the body), to intellectual intelligence, to emotional intelligence —which centres on self-regulation – and finally to spiritual intelligence, which integrates the others through purpose and consciousness.

THE VALUE OF INTERCONNECTEDNESS

Spiritual intelligence is rooted in a sense of interconnectedness – between individuals, organisations, society, the environment and the transcendent. Spiritually intelligent leaders recognise that the elements within a corporate ecosystem are intricately connected and that each contributes value to the system’s overall effectiveness.

In this sense, “I am because you are” takes on particular relevance in the workplace. Leaders must ask themselves: What is my why? When purpose drives decision-making, actions become more meaningful, sustainable and impactful — in contrast to the transactional choices made by leaders who rely purely on intellect.

A leader’s sense of purpose shapes an organisation’s culture. When leaders understand their why, they begin to see that businesses exist not just for profit, but as part of a broader sociocultural, ecological and economic system. The goal becomes not only to be efficient internally, but also to create shared value for all stakeholders — staff, customers, communities and the environment.

THE NEUROSCIENCE BEHIND SPIRITUAL INTELLIGENCE

Three core brain functions enable spiritual intelligence and when activated, support purpose-driven leadership:

• Holistic function: this is the brain’s capacity to perceive the whole as more than the sum of its parts. Leaders with spiritual intelligence view their organisation as one integrated system, rather than a collection of departments, fostering connection and collaboration.
• Causality: this is the brain’s ability to link cause and effect. For example, when leaders treat all stakeholders with dignity and humanity, they often see higher levels of engagement and innovation. Spiritually intelligent leaders recognise these links and lead accordingly.
• Enquiry: this is the brain’s curiosity engine —its ability to ask “what if”. By questioning the status quo, leaders open themselves to innovation and fresh ways of thinking. Asking “Is there a better way to run this business?” can shift the organisation from a survival mindset to one of thriving.

These functions underpin spiritual intelligence, empowering leaders to model a more holistic, purpose-led way of operating that can be mirrored throughout the organisation.

LEADERSHIP REFLECTION IS A BUSINESS IMPERATIVE

Leadership teams should prioritise reflection on shared purpose as much as they do bottom-line results. Some questions to bring into leadership dialogue include:

• What is our business purpose beyond profit?
• How well are we fulfilling this purpose?
• Are individuals within the organisation aligned with it?
• If not, what must we do to create alignment?
• Does society identify with the business or brand we are becoming?

These questions are not philosophical luxuries; they are strategic imperatives. Ignoring them risks stagnation or becoming irrelevant. In a world of growing inequality, companies that fail to repurpose could be contributing to their declining customer base in years to come.

OUR PURPOSE IS OUR LEGACY

Purpose – both personal and collective – is not abstract; it is deeply practical. It shapes how we do business, treat people and impact the world.

As Africans, and especially as South Africans, we are uniquely positioned to lead with spiritual intelligence. Our cultural values, especially Ubuntu, have long championed connection, care and community. These are not just social ideals – they are competitive advantages in a changing world.

Let us disrupt our thinking and lead with purpose so we can help co-create a future for which future generations will thank us.