Life is a path strewn with pitfalls, a trek made up of missteps and tears, but often our most fearsome battles don't take place on the outside, but within ourselves. Every day we face internal struggles that test our will, our confidence and our resilience. These struggles can take many forms: doubts, fears, limiting beliefs, and even struggles with our own desires and aspirations. Indeed, we are often our own worst critics, allowing our negative thoughts and anxieties to hold us back in our quest for happiness and fulfilment. Recognising that these struggles are within us is the first step towards victory. This process of introspection and self-confrontation may seem daunting, but it is also essential if we are to grow and evolve. Each of our stumbles, stammerings and even our first failures is in fact the bridge that connects us to the best version of the person we are truly called to be.

Everyone should be able to realise this, and work intentionally towards their own personal development and growth. That's another reason why there are ‘trigger’ conferences, where world-renowned speakers share their experiences with the aim of enabling as many people as possible to learn from them. And for almost two decades now, this has been the leitmotiv of one man, Dr Raoul Ruben, who, at the top of the great Academy Twenty One organisation, has set himself the challenge and mission of putting colossal resources at stake to make this organisation one of the best in the world. It's not just a dream, but above all a commitment and a mission that he carries like a priesthood, and he doesn't intend to rest until the evening of this achievement. As a continuation of his international programme, he held an amazing A21 ORIENTATION in Lubumbashi, with a poignant talk focusing exclusively on Leadership and building an inspiring personality. He set out 17 CRITERIA FOR BECOMING A GOOD LEADER, which constitute the essential lever for building a self-image that not only makes us proud of ourselves, but also inspires others. That's the mission, that's the burden.

17 CRITERIA FOR BECOMING A GOOD LEADER.

1- Confident.

Confidence is one of the most fundamental traits of a good leader. A confident person naturally inspires others and makes them want to follow their vision.Confidence is more than just self-assurance; it also implies a thorough knowledge of one's skills and limitations. A confident leader knows that he can rely on his abilities, while being aware of the areas in which he can still make progress. This confidence translates into a strong presence and clear communication, enabling team members to feel reassured and motivated. By cultivating trust, a leader creates an environment where ideas can flow freely, where people feel valued and where risks can be taken without fear of negative repercussions. Trust is the foundation on which a leader's credibility and collective success are built.

2- Honesty & Integrity.

Honesty and integrity are essential values for a leader. Being honest means being transparent in one's actions and intentions, while integrity means remaining true to one's principles and values, even when this is difficult. A leader who embodies these qualities gains the trust of his team, because they know they can rely on him to tell the truth and act ethically. Honesty fosters a culture of transparency, where members feel safe to share their ideas and concerns.On the other hand, a lack of honesty can quickly undermine trust and commitment within a team or organisation. By setting an example, an honest leader inspires his or her colleagues to act in the same way, creating a working environment where integrity is valued. Honesty and integrity are not just personal qualities, but essential foundations for building solid and lasting relationships.

3- Passionate & Commitment

Passion is a powerful driving force that propels a leader forward. A passionate leader radiates a contagious energy that can inspire and motivate his or her team to give their best. This passion translates into a genuine commitment to the organisation's objectives and mission. A committed leader doesn't just give orders; he or she invests personally in projects, showing that he or she believes in what he or she is doing. This involvement can take the form of overtime, a willingness to overcome challenges and a particular attention to the needs of the team. A passionate leader also knows how to communicate this passion, creating a sense of belonging and intrinsic motivation among team members. By cultivating an environment where passion is encouraged, a leader creates a positive dynamic conducive to innovation and creativity.Passion and commitment are essential catalysts for inspiring and mobilising a team towards excellence.

4- Humble.

Humility is a quality that is often underestimated in leaders, but it is crucial to building solid, authentic relationships. A humble leader recognises that a team's success is the result of collective efforts, not just his or her own contributions. They are prepared to listen to others, accept constructive criticism and learn from their mistakes. This open attitude fosters a climate of trust and respect, where everyone feels valued and listened to. A humble leader does not seek to put himself forward, but rather to make his team shine. They celebrate the successes of others and encourage them to excel. By showing humility, a leader also inspires his or her colleagues to show the same quality, thereby strengthening cohesion and team spirit. Humility enables a leader to remain accessible and to build a collaborative environment, where learning and growth are at the heart of the concerns.

5- Visionary.

A good leader is above all a visionary. They are able to see beyond the immediate challenges and project a clear image of the future. This vision guides not only their actions, but also those of their team.A visionary leader inspires his employees by showing them where they are going and why their work is important. They know how to articulate this vision convincingly, creating a sense of enthusiasm and urgency around shared goals. By cultivating a clear vision, a leader can also anticipate market trends and the future needs of the organisation. This enables the team to adapt quickly to change and remain competitive. A visionary leader also encourages innovation and creativity, encouraging team members to explore new ideas and think outside the box. A strong and inspiring vision is essential to motivate a team and lead the organisation to success.

6- Decisive.

The ability to take decisions quickly and effectively is a key quality of a good leader. In a constantly changing environment, leaders are often faced with difficult choices that require in-depth analysis and rapid action. A decisive leader knows how to weigh up the options, anticipate the repercussions and act accordingly. This ability to decide inspires confidence and assures the team that leadership is strong and decisive. Decisions taken with confidence maintain momentum and give the team a sense of direction.However, being decisive does not mean acting impulsively; it means gathering the necessary information and consulting team members where appropriate. A good leader is also prepared to adjust his or her decisions according to the results obtained, thus demonstrating flexibility and a willingness to learn. Decision-making is central to leadership, and a decisive leader is able to guide his or her team through uncertainty with confidence.

7- Influential.

Influence is an essential quality for a good leader. This concerns not only the ability to lead, but also to inspire and motivate others to adopt a certain perspective or to act in a favorable direction. An influential leader knows how to build strong relationships based on trust and mutual respect. They use their ability to communicate effectively and their posture to persuade and encourage their colleagues. Influence comes not only from a hierarchical position, but also from the ability to demonstrate exemplary skills, values and behaviour. Influential leaders are often seen as role models, which reinforces their ability to mobilise others towards common goals. By cultivating a positive influence, a leader can create an environment where team members feel valued and motivated to contribute to the collective mission. In short, influence is a powerful skill that, when used wisely, can transform a team and propel an organisation to new heights.

8- Inspirer.

A good leader is also an inspirer. They have the ability to generate enthusiasm and motivation in others. By sharing their vision and communicating enthusiastically, they create a sense of belonging and commitment among team members. Inspirational leaders don't just give orders; they set an example through their actions and attitude. They encourage their colleagues to give their best and to go beyond their own limits. By sharing success stories and positive experiences, an inspirational leader motivates his or her team to believe in their own abilities. This creates a culture of support and encouragement, where everyone feels valued and ready to take on challenges. Inspiration is a key element of leadership, as it transforms an ordinary team into a dynamic and committed group ready to achieve ambitious goals.

9- Clean & Chic.

A leader's personal appearance plays a significant role in how they are perceived by others. Being clean and smart is not just a question of aesthetics, it also reflects respect for yourself and for those around you.A well-groomed leader sends a message of professionalism and seriousness, setting a standard for his or her team. It also demonstrates attention to detail, an essential trait when managing an organisation. A polished presentation can reinforce a leader's credibility, making it easier to communicate and collaborate with others. In addition, a leader who cares about his or her appearance shows that he or she values the working environment and encourages his or her colleagues to adopt a similar attitude. This helps to create a positive corporate culture, where everyone feels motivated to give their best. A leader's appearance is an extension of their character and commitment to excellence.

10- Empathetic.

Empathy is an essential quality that distinguishes a good leader from others. Being empathetic means not only understanding the feelings and perspectives of others, but also acting accordingly. An empathetic leader creates an environment where team members feel understood and valued. This fosters open and honest communication, which is essential for resolving conflicts and overcoming challenges. By taking the time to actively listen and put themselves in other people's shoes, an empathic leader builds strong relationships based on trust and respect.This sensitivity to the needs and concerns of others contributes to a positive team culture, where everyone feels safe to express their ideas and emotions. Empathy also makes it easier to manage difficult situations, as a leader who is able to understand the emotions of others can guide his or her team through moments of stress and uncertainty. Empathy is a key skill that strengthens the bond between a leader and his or her team, fostering a harmonious and productive working environment.

11- Time management and priorities.

Managing time and priorities is crucial for an effective leader. In an often frenetic work environment, the ability to organise and prioritize tasks can mean the difference between success and failure. A good leader knows how to allocate time strategically, focusing on the tasks that will have the greatest impact on the team's objectives. This requires a clear vision of priorities and the ability to say no to distractions that can divert attention from the main objectives. By setting realistic deadlines and planning the necessary resources, a leader can maximise the effectiveness of his or her team. In addition, good time management reduces stress and improves productivity, creating a more positive working environment by giving primacy to urgent, necessary, priority and indispensable objectives. Managing time and priorities is essential for effective leadership, as it helps to maintain focus and ensure consistent progress towards set objectives.

12- Stress management.

There can be no leadership without stress. Emotions are the means by which our humanity expresses itself. We are alive because we can feel fear, doubt, joy, love and above all the strength of resilience that guides us along the paths of the future. Stress management is an essential skill for a leader, because it influences not only his or her own well-being, but also that of his or her team. A leader has to deal with a variety of pressures, from tight deadlines and high expectations to interpersonal conflict. Knowing how to manage stress constructively is therefore crucial to maintaining a positive working atmosphere. A good leader uses stress management techniques, such as meditation, sport or regular breaks, to stay centered and calm. By cultivating a positive attitude and adopting effective relaxation strategies, they can also help their team to overcome stressful situations. This creates an environment where team members feel supported and able to manage their own challenges. Stress management is a fundamental aspect of leadership, as it helps to maintain clarity of mind and productivity within the team.

13- Communication skills.

Knowing how to communicate is a necessity for anyone who aspires to leadership. Communication is to a leader what wings are to a bird or the sun is to greenery. Effective communication is to a leader what oxygen is to the lungs. The ability to communicate is a fundamental skill for any leader. A good leader must be able to convey his or her ideas clearly and effectively, whether through presentations, meetings or informal exchanges. Open and honest communication promotes transparency and builds trust within the team. A leader who listens attentively and responds appropriately to the concerns of his colleagues shows that he values their opinions. What's more, effective communication helps to clarify expectations, avoid misunderstandings and keep everyone on the same wavelength. By cultivating a communication style that encourages feedback and the exchange of ideas, a leader can also stimulate creativity and innovation within his or her team. The ability to communicate is essential for effective leadership, as it facilitates collaboration and strengthens interpersonal relations.

14- Capacity to collaborate

Someone once said: ‘We don't have to like each other, but we do have to work together. Working together has always been like a punch under the shoe for many people, because of a sense of individualism, fear of conflict or even excessive self-assurance that prevents them from properly appreciating the efforts and contributions of others. The ability to collaborate is a key skill for a leader, as it enables individuals with diverse talents to be brought together around a common goal. A good leader knows that the success of a team depends on the synergy between its members. They encourage an environment where everyone feels free to share their ideas and contribute actively. By creating opportunities for teamwork, a leader fosters a culture of cooperation that stimulates innovation and creativity. Effective collaboration also requires open communication and mutual respect, elements which the leader must actively promote. By facilitating constructive discussions and valuing everyone's contributions, a leader can strengthen the bonds within the team and create a sense of belonging. The ability to collaborate is essential for successful leadership, as it enables the team to leverage individual strengths to achieve collective results.

15- Adaptability.

Adaptability is an essential skill for a leader in a constantly changing world. Leaders must be prepared to deal with unforeseen changes, whether they be new technologies, changes in the market or internal dynamics. A good leader knows that flexibility is crucial to navigating through uncertainty. This requires an open mind and a willingness to learn constantly. An adaptable leader is able to reconsider strategies and adjust plans in response to new information and feedback. By also encouraging his team to embrace change, a leader creates an environment where innovation and experimentation are valued. This enables the team to remain agile and responsive in the face of challenges. Adaptability is a major asset for a leader, as it enables changes to be transformed into opportunities and keeps the team competitive. After all, change is the only true constant.

16- Listening skills.

Listening skills are often overlooked, but they are crucial to effective leadership. A good leader must be attentive to his team's concerns, ideas and feedback.Active listening provides a better understanding of members' needs and motivations, fostering open communication and an atmosphere of trust. By showing that they value the points of view of others, leaders can increase commitment and job satisfaction. Furthermore, by listening carefully, potential problems or conflicts can be identified quickly, making them easier to resolve. A leader who listens is also able to adapt his or her approaches and decisions in line with the feedback received. The ability to listen is an essential skill that contributes to the creation of a collaborative and respectful environment, conducive to the development of each team member. Because a leader's real strength lies not always in the power of his words, but above all in his ability to listen to others.

17- Problem solving & conflict resolution.

The ability to resolve problems and conflicts is an essential skill for a leader. In any team, disagreements and challenges can arise, and a good leader must be able to navigate through these difficult situations diplomatically and effectively. This starts with a thorough analysis of the problem, identifying the underlying causes and involving the parties concerned. A skilled leader knows that the key to successful resolution lies in clear and open communication. By encouraging constructive dialogue, they enable team members to share their perspectives and work together to find solutions. In addition, a leader who proactively manages conflict sets an example by fostering a culture of respect and cooperation. The ability to resolve problems and conflicts is essential to maintaining harmony within the team and ensuring a productive and positive working environment.  
The essence of leadership is a quest for improvement and greatness. It pushes us to navigate through uncertainties, challenges and constant battles, and above all reminds us that the most difficult battles in life are the ones we fight against ourselves. The very essence of leadership is a quest for improvement and greatness. It pushes us to navigate through uncertainties, challenges and constant battles, and above all reminds us that the most difficult battles in life are the ones we fight against ourselves. They force us to look ourselves in the face, to understand our strengths and weaknesses, and to accept our imperfections. It is in this internal struggle that the true potential for transformation lies. By learning to overcome our doubts, tame our fears and nurture our confidence, we can not only improve our quality of life, but also inspire those around us. These struggles, though daunting, are valuable opportunities for personal growth. In the end, each victory over ourselves brings They force us to look ourselves in the face, to understand our strengths and weaknesses, and to accept our imperfections. It is in this internal struggle that the true potential for transformation lies. By learning to overcome our doubts, tame our fears and nurture our confidence, we can not only improve our quality of life, but also inspire those around us. These struggles, though daunting, are valuable opportunities for personal growth. In the end, each victory over ourselves brings us a little closer to the best version of ourselves, enabling us to face the world with confidence and determination.

What could anyone say after witnessing such a Master-Class? It would be heresy not to recognize the messianic dimension of Dr Raoul Ruben after experiencing such a moment, intense in information and rich in perspectives, all this in a good-natured atmosphere tinged with humour. It's this singular touch, this unique way of communicating from the Chairman that makes him the kind of speaker that others might describe as prolix, but it's an adjective that suits him perfectly. The next destination after Lubumbashi is Mauritania, with a programme just as electric as the previous ones Like a flowing river, Academy Twenty One is also gradually moving towards its dream of greatness and impact, and it is better to be a player in this great programme of life transformation than a spectator. Each of us holds the keys to our own elevation and ennoblement, or to our own downfall and withering.