Invictus Reflection

I must admit that I have always had a soft spot for most sports movies, there’s just something about the competition, the anticipation, and the triumph. Beyond the feel good qualities, I think that sports serve as a great vessel for exhibiting character traits. Nelson Mandela, a politician (not an athlete), is the protagonist in Invictus, but it was interesting to watch his actions influence rugby team captain Francois Pienaar. Mandela was not afraid to go against the grain when it served the greater good and this trait was echoed in Pienaar’s actions as well. When Mandela’s closest supporters resisted his decision to preserve the rugby team he did not modify his vision. When Pienaar shared a team song in what was once an “enemy” tongue, he saw past initial push back from his teammates. Both of these men have strong conviction in their actions and this translated into confident leadership.

Another theme that resonated with me throughout the film is the belief that no one is invisible. Mandela took a keen interest individual’s personal lives. This was evident by his questions to his bodyguards on his morning walks and his diligence in learning every rugby player’s name. He knew the importance of gaining trust. I think a parallel act of inclusion was when Pienaar got a world cup ticket for their family housekeeper. He was seeing beyond his usual circle, and while this was more of an act of kindness than a leadership tactic, it is apparent that Mandela’s leadership style was both infectious and effective.