Reviewed by Luwi Nyakansaila for Readers' Favorite

Modern Leadership: Inspired by Mother Nature by Funké Nnennaya Michaels and Ndeye Absa Gningue is an inspiring guide that aims to teach readers about leadership through nature and animal traits. The authors share their journeys to success across different West African countries. They highlight the challenges that women in this region face and the strategies they use to achieve their goals. They delve into the characteristics of creatures like bees, ants, and butterflies that are small but share lessons on teamwork, leadership, and adapting to change. The authors also talk about owls and giraffes, whose ability to see further than other creatures helps them envision the future and see predators and competitors. Readers will discover fascinating insights into the animal kingdom, exploring the lioness’s stealthy hunting techniques, elephants’ remarkable memory and knowledge retention, and the octopus’s impressive multitasking and problem-solving abilities, along with many other intriguing animal behaviors that they can use to be better leaders.

Modern Leadership is a much-needed guide for women looking to develop strategies drawn from the animal kingdom to enhance their inherent skills and apply them in business settings. Women possess great intuition, which they utilize in their daily lives, from raising children to managing friendships. The skills exhibited by different animals—such as teamwork, resourcefulness, planning for the future, and adaptability—are essential for growing a business and leading a team. I appreciate that Funké Nnennaya Michaels and Ndeye Absa Gningue include African proverbs and personal anecdotes from their experiences in Nigeria, Benin, and Senegal, enriching the book with cultural depth. They celebrate their roots and reflect on the resilience these places have instilled in them. The personal examples shared are both authentic and moving, adding a heartfelt touch to the narrative. Furthermore, the authors pay tribute to those who have supported them along their journeys, emphasizing the importance of gratitude in personal growth. Overall, this is an excellent read that will help women become visionary leaders who embrace the wisdom of nature alongside their cultural heritage.