First Female President of the Law Association Zambia, Linda Kasonde shares her fascinating perspective on leadership

“Don’t aspire for leadership positions to get a title. Lead to serve humanity in whatever way you can with the gifts you have.”

Linda Kasonde is a 2014 Tutu Fellow and legal practitioner based in Lusaka, Zambia, admitted to the Zambian Bar in 2001. In April 2019 Linda was elected Vice-President for Africa of the Commonwealth Lawyers’ Association, the first Zambian woman to hold that position. In 2016 she became President of the Law Association of Zambia (LAZ) which she held until 2018, making her the first female to hold the position in the history of the Bar Association, either before or after Zambia gained its independence in 1964. She is currently the Executive director of a Zambian NGO called Chapter One Foundation limited and the founder of the firm LCK Chambers. She draws upon her impressive accolades and wealth of knowledge to talk to Stories Africa about leadership.

What motivates you to lead?

I am passionate about protecting human rights and the rule of law. I think that is my gift or talent. My favourite parable in the Bible is the parable of the talents. The lesson in that parable is that each person has a talent no matter how small. Our purpose is to use our talent in service of others. American writer and philanthropist Wes Moore says service is where the use of our talents meets the world’s greatest need. I feel it is my purpose to use my talents in service of others for the greater good.

What is the best way to prepare for leadership?

Discover and follow your passion which someone once described as doing “what you like being good at”. It is an expression of your talents that gives you the platform to be of service.

Who is an example of inspired, values-based leadership (past or present) that you have learned from? 

I am a huge Oprah Winfrey fan. Like she says, everyone should aspire to be the highest, truest expression of themselves. That’s the definition of success. I’m also a huge fan of Martin Luther King and Nelson Mandela who for me exemplify moral courage and fortitude.

How would you describe your style of leadership and your ambition as a leader?

I try and use my gifts to address injustices and to create opportunities for others, particularly women, where I can. I have a can-do attitude to achieving what I envision. I’m a deliberate leader.

What is your message to Africa’s aspiring leaders?

Don’t aspire for leadership positions to get a title. Lead to serve humanity in whatever way you can with the gifts you have.