Name: Siya

Title: Director

Organisation: Global Development Consortium

"Ms. Siya Hlongwa

Ms. Siya Hlongwa is a multidisciplinary professional and human rights activist dedicated to fostering sustainable development and social justice. She holds a Bachelor of Architecture from UKZN, a Postgraduate Diploma in Town and Regional Planning, and a Master of Science in Development Planning from Wits University.

Current Roles

• Director, Global Development Consortium (GDC): A consultancy specializing in sustainable development and multidisciplinary solutions.

• Director, TransWorks Global (TWG): A nonprofit organization championing the rights and economic empowerment of marginalized communities.

• Director, TWHRD Collective: Advocating for the rights of trans and non-binary individuals across Africa.

• Chairperson, South African National SDG Working Group (2024-2025): Driving progress towards the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

• Director, MxInfinite: Focused on disability rights and corporate policy reform.

Ms. Hlongwa’s leadership extends to issues such as gender-based violence, LGBTQIA+ rights, disability inclusion, and access to justice, where her efforts have had both national and international impact.

For inquiries or collaborations, connect via https://linkbio.co/TheOfficialSiya or contact directly at +27 79 923 6911."

Thank you to the 2,000 leaders who’ve generously done the 7 Questions on Leadership!

We’ve gone through the interviews and asked the best of the best to come back and answer 7 MORE Questions on Leadership.

I hope Siya's answers will encourage you in your leadership journey. Enjoy!

Cheers,

Jonno White

1. As a leader, how do you build trust with employees, customers and other stakeholders?

"Trust (ukuThembeka, my mother tongue of isiZulu) is at the heart of everything I do as a leader across multiple organizations focused on human rights, sustainable development, and advocacy. For me, building trust means creating strong, transparent, and reliable relationships where everyone feels empowered and valued.

Here’s how I ensure it:

1. Set Clear Expectations: It all starts with clarity. Everyone needs to understand their roles, responsibilities, and the goals we’re working toward. When expectations are clear, people are more confident in what they need to do and how they can support one another.

2. Be Transparent and Communicate Openly: Honest communication is non-negotiable. Whether I’m engaging with employees, partners, or stakeholders, being open and consistent about what’s happening fosters trust and keeps everyone aligned.

3. Show Up and Deliver: Trust grows when actions match words. I work hard to ensure that my teams and I deliver on our commitments. It’s about reliability—proving that people can count on us.

4. Track Progress and Stay Accountable: Monitoring and evaluation systems are essential. They help us stay on track, meet performance goals, and ensure the quality of our work. When everyone is accountable, trust naturally follows.

5. Collaborate and Include Others: Building trust is a team effort. I believe in inclusive decision-making—giving people a voice and a sense of ownership. When people feel heard and involved, trust and collaboration thrive.

At the core, trust is about being transparent, accountable, and consistent. Whether working with employees, engaging with stakeholders, or delivering for customers, it’s the foundation for creating meaningful and lasting impact."

2. What do 'VISION' and 'MISSION' mean to you? And what does it actually look like to use them in real-world business?

Vision: A vision is the dream that inspires action—a forward-looking, ambitious idea of what could be achieved in the future. In my work as a leader across multiple organizations and advocacy initiatives, my vision is to create a world where equality, justice, and sustainable development are accessible to all, regardless of gender, identity, or socio-economic background. This vision fuels every effort I make, whether addressing gender-based violence, advancing disability rights, or empowering marginalized communities through advocacy and capacity-building.

Mission: A mission is the practical commitment to achieving that dream. It’s the tangible steps, goals, and strategies that transform the vision into reality. My mission is to lead organizations and initiatives that provide tools, resources, and support to individuals and communities. Whether through TransWorks Global’s economic empowerment programs, Global Development Consortium’s sustainable development projects, or MxInfinite’s advocacy for corporate inclusion, my mission is rooted in actionable change and measurable impact.

Together, my vision and mission guide my work in shaping a more inclusive and equitable society. They are the compass that ensures every hat I wear—advocate, director, mentor, and changemaker—aligns with a purpose-driven journey toward lasting transformation.

3. How can a leader empower the people they're leading?

Empowering Through Leadership and Collaboration

As a leader with diverse professional responsibilities, I believe in empowering people by setting an example rooted in integrity, accountability, and collaboration. Empowerment is not just about delegation; it’s about fostering agency and creating an environment where individuals feel confident to contribute to decision-making processes. This inclusive approach enhances outcomes and ensures a well-informed process for achieving key performance indicators, maintaining high standards of quality and efficiency.

Leading by Example

Leadership begins with modeling the behaviors, values, and work ethic you wish to see in others. My roles across various organizations require me to demonstrate commitment, adaptability, and vision while maintaining clarity of purpose. By setting the tone, I inspire teams to align with organizational goals and embrace a shared responsibility for success. Encouraging Agency and Decision-Making,

I firmly believe in giving individuals the freedom to take ownership of their tasks. By trusting my teams to make decisions and contribute their expertise, I enable them to grow and thrive. This collaborative approach ensures the process is not only informed but also enriched by diverse perspectives.

Streamlining Systems and Delegation

Automation is a vital tool in today’s fast-paced world, allowing for seamless management and efficient workflows. By implementing automated systems where appropriate, I aim to simplify processes, reduce administrative burdens, and free up time for strategic thinking. At the same time, strategic delegation ensures that tight deadlines and unexpected challenges are addressed effectively, empowering team members to step up and take charge when needed.

Fostering Collaboration and Creativity

A productive working relationship requires observant, empathetic leadership and an environment that fosters open communication. By encouraging active listening and promoting creative thinking, I create a space where ideas flow freely, and all parties feel heard and valued. This approach enhances the quality of work while strengthening trust and collaboration.

In my roles as a director, advocate, and leader in various sectors, these principles guide my commitment to fostering high-performing teams and impactful outcomes. Whether working on gender-based violence advocacy, sustainable development, or corporate inclusion, I prioritize empowering those I work with to achieve excellence collectively.

4. Who are some of the coaches or mentors in your life who have had a positive influence on your leadership? Can you please tell a meaningful story about one of them?

The Inspiration Behind My Leadership Style and Work

My leadership style and focus areas are deeply rooted in the values instilled in me by my grandmother, Sybil Sibongile Nungu-Sikhosana. A matron at King Edward Hospital in Durban, South Africa, and a respected community leader in Umlazi, she exemplified the principles of Ubuntu—the philosophy of shared humanity and compassion.

In her professional and personal life, my grandmother embodied selflessness and solidarity. As a matron, she was a beacon of care and leadership in healthcare, and within her community, she led by example. She was a lead singer in the Methodist Church choir, using her voice not only to uplift spirits but also to unify her neighbors and peers.

Her actions extended far beyond the walls of the church or the hospital. She was intentional about sharing her blessings, always looking for ways to help those in need. Whether it was donating old furniture when the family upgraded, setting aside clothing for struggling neighbors, or contributing financially to households facing hardship, she did so without seeking recognition or thanks. Her work was driven by a deep commitment to upholding the dignity of others.

Inspired by her ethos, I have dedicated my life to continuing her legacy. Her example taught me that leadership is about service, compassion, and intentional action. It’s about recognizing the humanity in others and doing what you can to make their lives better, whether through advocacy, empowerment, or creating opportunities.

Her influence informs every aspect of my work today, from my advocacy for gender-based violence survivors and marginalized groups to my leadership roles in sustainable development and inclusion-focused organizations. Like my grandmother, I aim to lead with integrity, empathy, and a deep commitment to uplifting others, not for recognition, but because it’s the right thing to do.

5. Leadership is often more about what you DON'T do. How do you maintain focus in your role?

"As a leader and advocate with responsibilities spanning multiple organizations and sectors, my relationship with stakeholders, government entities, and donors often necessitates a dynamic and tailored approach. Each project or initiative requires a distinct focus aligned with its specific goals and the portfolio under my management. These areas of focus may shift according to the needs and demands of the moment, but they are always anchored within the greater vision and strategic framework of the organization I represent.

Roles and Leadership

In my capacity as:

• Director of the Global Development Consortium (GDC): I oversee multidisciplinary sustainable development projects that align with global and local priorities.

• Director of TransWorks Global (TWG): I focus on empowering marginalized groups through economic participation and access to opportunities.

• Director of the TWHRD Collective: I advocate for trans and non-binary rights and justice across various platforms.

• Chairperson of the South African National SDG Working Group (2024-2025): I guide multi-stakeholder efforts to achieve the UN Sustainable Development Goals in South Africa. • Director of MxInfinite: I advance disability rights and corporate inclusion through policy-driven interventions.

These roles demand both strategic vision and operational adaptability, ensuring that every initiative contributes to the larger mission of fostering inclusivity, justice, and sustainable development.

Balancing Vision and Operational Focus.

While the overarching vision provides the structure that connects and aligns all projects, I maintain a focused yet flexible approach to execution. This involves not only managing my own priorities but also staying engaged with the broader operations of each organization. By understanding the interdependencies between departments and teams, I am able to provide informed guidance to employees, volunteers, and colleagues.

Peer-Led Collaboration and Organizational Growth

In every role, I prioritize creating a collaborative environment where ideas can flow freely across all levels of management. Whether I’m offering guidance to colleagues, receiving feedback, or participating in peer-to-peer exchanges, the goal is to maintain a fluid system where necessary reforms, process enhancements, and innovative solutions are encouraged. This ensures that programs, proposals, and organizational strategies remain adaptive and effective.

Educational and Strategic Foundation

My academic background—including a Bachelor of Architecture, a Postgraduate Diploma in Town and Regional Planning, and a Master of Science in Development Planning—provides the technical expertise needed to design, implement, and evaluate impactful programs. Combined with my experience leading diverse organizations, I am equipped to foster systems that balance operational excellence with long-term vision, driving increased impact and efficiency in all areas of my work.

Ultimately, my leadership is grounded in a commitment to shared purpose, collaboration, and continuous improvement, ensuring that every effort contributes meaningfully to the communities and causes I serve."

6. If you fail to plan, you plan to fail. Everyone plans differently. How do you plan for the week, month and years ahead in your role?

"Strategic Planning Rooted in Research, Context, and Global Awareness While I maintain strategic plans aligned with the missions of the organizations I lead, my approach is deeply grounded in adaptability and a thorough understanding of the evolving landscapes in which we operate. My work as a leader in institutions like the Global Development Consortium (GDC), TransWorks Global (TWG), TWHRD Collective, MxInfinite, and as Chairperson of the South African National SDG Working Group (2024-2025) demands that I balance a clear vision with the flexibility to respond to dynamic geopolitical, social, and economic shifts. Research-Driven and Contextual Leadership

A significant part of my work is rooted in research and contextual analysis. By studying the environments in which I work—locally, regionally, continentally, and globally—I ensure that my organizations remain relevant, impactful, and adaptive. This means continuously monitoring:

• Geopolitical trends: Understanding how global and regional events shape the contexts in which communities operate.

• Policy and legal frameworks: Keeping a close eye on changes in laws, policies, and institutional dynamics that affect marginalized groups, including gender-diverse communities, persons with disabilities, and survivors of gender-based violence.

• Economic and environmental factors: Analyzing economic developments and environmental concerns to design sustainable programs.

A Multi-Sectoral Approach to Impact

The sectors of influence that shape my work include politics, economics, environmental sustainability, and institutional policy. By integrating insights from these spheres, I can create forward-thinking directives that not only advance the goals of my organization but also respond effectively to the unique needs of the communities and stakeholders we serve.

For example, through TransWorks Global, I design capacity-building programs that address economic participation for marginalized groups, informed by both grassroots realities and global best practices. Similarly, at MxInfinite, my work centers on ensuring corporate policies are inclusive of disability rights while aligning with evolving global standards.

Designing for Progress and Efficiency

The directives I create aim to ensure efficiency, adaptability, and enhanced impact. By tailoring programs to the unique nature of each context, I ensure that initiatives remain relevant, effective, and responsive to the communities we partner with. This approach prioritizes:

• Capacity building: Developing initiatives that equip individuals and communities with the tools they need to thrive.

• Strategic progress: Continuously refining strategies to align with both immediate needs and long-term goals.

• Collaboration: Partnering with communities, stakeholders, and donors to achieve shared objectives.

My leadership style is a balance of vision, adaptability, and strategic insight, ensuring that every initiative contributes meaningfully to achieving our greater mission of fostering inclusivity, equity, and sustainable development. This approach not only enhances the efficiency of our programs but also ensures their long-term impact in creating empowered, resilient communities."

7. What advice would you give to a young leader who is struggling to delegate effectively?

"Advice to Young Leaders on Delegation and Building Collaborative Teams To a young leader struggling with delegation, my first piece of advice would be to focus on self-awareness. Understand your own strengths and weaknesses and recognize that leadership is not about doing everything yourself—it’s about building a team that complements your abilities and shares your vision.

In my various roles, including as Director of Global Development Consortium (GDC), TransWorks Global (TWG), TWHRD Collective, and MxInfinite, as well as Chairperson of the South African National SDG Working Group, I’ve learned that effective delegation begins with selecting the right people to share responsibilities. This could mean collaborating with stakeholders, partners, or employees who bring unique expertise and experience to the table. By sharing responsibilities, you not only lighten your workload but also enrich the quality of your projects through diverse perspectives.

Partnering for Shared Burdens and Costs

Leadership often involves addressing practical challenges, such as funding and resource allocation. In these instances, I encourage leaders to:

• Seek partnerships with stakeholders or donors who align with their mission.

• Explore creative ways to share costs across partnerships without compromising the quality of the work.

• Foster collaborative relationships where responsibilities—and financial burdens—are distributed equitably, enabling all parties to focus on achieving the project’s objectives.

Delegating Within an Organization

Internally, delegation is about leveraging the strengths of your team. Assign tasks to employees who have the most experience and capacity, while also creating opportunities for less experienced team members to grow.

To achieve this, I recommend:

1. Setting up systems for monitoring and evaluation: Develop clear processes to track progress toward key performance indicators (KPIs). This includes setting milestones that allow for regular assessments and adjustments.

2. Integrating learning into execution: Pair less experienced employees with mentors or supervisors who can guide them while they work. This not only ensures quality but also fosters on-the-job training.

3. Providing detailed instructions and support: Empower your team with the tools, knowledge, and confidence they need to make informed decisions.

Guidance, Growth, and Quality

Delegation doesn’t mean relinquishing control—it’s about providing guidance and creating systems that allow your team to deliver high-quality work. Leadership is a process of shared growth, where both leaders and team members learn from each other. By fostering this environment, you ensure that everyone feels valued and empowered, and the organization moves forward with strength and unity.

Remember, leadership isn’t just about achieving goals; it’s about building capacity, fostering trust, and creating a shared sense of purpose within your team and partnerships. Effective delegation is one of the most powerful tools you have to accomplish this."