Ubuntu: The One Word to Change How You Work, Live and Lead | Shola Richards | TEDxSouthLakeTahoe

What if our global mindset was refocused on the transcendent concept of Ubuntu — the African philosophy that represents the power of human connectedness, kindness and compassion? In this vulnerable and thought-provoking talk, Shola Richards addresses that important question, while showing how Ubuntu can be used to transform how we work, live and lead. Some people call me a cheerleader (admittedly, I'm a natural at enthusiasm), but I'm actually a champion of those who value integrity.

Because really, what's more important than the principles we exude...and thus, the principles we spread?

[ts-vqgc]

Came for an operating system, stayed for humanity.

[sunshine]

Obuntu is also the freedom to be ourselves with the compassion and understanding of our fellow human beings. ❤❤❤

[aniquemautner]

This is one of the most powerful talks I've seen. Beautiful, heartbreaking, and an invitation to be kinder, more compassionate, and more connected. Thank you, Shola! Ubuntu.

[helenhenninger]

No matter what someone does it is never appropriate to bully them. If they're the worst employee you ever had it is never necessary to bully them. Bullying is never required or necessary

[jenniferpierce]

Found Shola this morning and could not have come at a better time. Ubuntu. Spread the word.

[lindamaldonado]

Absolutely "Right on spot"! The time must be Now. Everywhere for all.

[charmainemutsago]

Kindness! Connection! and Compassion! Word 💯

[JimmyPeck]

I'm here after reading Shola's Fb post that went viral and find this message equally important. His mosquito analogy was an "Aha" moment for me.

[panhandlelibraryaccessnetwork]

We've had Shola Richards as a keynote speaker at one of our conferences -- he is inspiring!

[TStutts]

UBUNTU! This inspiration drives one to be a better person. We live by examples of words of kindness and actions of compassion. Continue spreading this message that the world may hear, Ubuntu, Ubuntu!

[babiej]

I found Shola's positivity website in 2016 when I was at a low in my life. I was stuck in a rut, working 40+ hours at a paycheck job. It felt like I was wasting my life, my time and my years. Reading his blog posts made me have a different outlook on life and to realize that life was meant to be lived, positively and happily. Ever since, I have had the pleasure in meeting him in NYC. I read both his books, look forward to his Monday morning emails and absolutely love the messages he gets across. His enthusiasm is so inspiring and I was so excited to hear he was giving a TED talk. TED talks are the best and this one was so awesome! Thank you so much for all the work that you do and continue to do!

[michellemsutter]

I am here after reading Shola's post on FB about only feeling safe when walking in the neighbourhood with his daughter and dog. I have had a very deep connection to the word Ubuntu for some time, so much so, I named my blog "The Ubuntu Diaries". I am grateful that Shola is sharing this important message. It is up to us to elevate humanity and lead/work/live with Ubuntu in our everyday.

[susanayasse]

"I am ... because We are..." THANK YOU MOSQUITO!

[rushy]

There are few moments in life that truly resonate and stay with you, this is one of them.

[MalloryWhitfield]

YESSS! I found myself nodding along the whole time Shola was speaking, and clapping at the end. (At home, alone in my living room...) I feel such a connection to Shola's words -- I am doing very similar work, with a slightly different approach and messaging, but the refrains of kindness, compassion, and our shared humanity resonated so deeply with my own work. I hope this TEDx hits 1 million views very, very soon.

[rebekahfilson]

Ubuntu - a great concept, I have read both of the books written by Shola and continuously go back to them as touchstones for leading positively and with compassion. Worth the watch!

[nathanielyarhouse]

The message given is not just for employers but for all. Schools should make this mandatory as well. Thank you so much.

[leetomlinson]

Shola is brilliant. This moving TEDTalk deeply inspired me with his accurate observation that the answer to all that ails others and ourselves is kindness, caring and compassion. Giving and getting. Simple -- but hard. Really, really hard. As Shola accurately says, if we want to change the world, we have to BE the change we so desperately want. We have to deliver kindness, caring and compassion to those in pain to help heal them and ourselves. The world is full of pain and the only solution is respect, inclusion and a desire to help our fellow human beings through that suffering. Ubuntu indeed. And, if not now, when? And, if not us, who? BTW, if Shola runs for President in November I'M VOTING FOR HIM! He is the living embodiment of kindness, caring and compassion. Bravo!

[teresateresa]

Thank you! There is strength in our diversity! Compassion, kindness, connectedness! I am a Registered Nurse & Music Major with Faith!

[DailyLaily]

So thankful to hear this message! Shola is such an uplifting and engaging presence- loved this Ted Talk! Feeling inspired and opening my heart and mind to the internal work and change that this has sparked within me. We have to start by being the example ourselves... thank you Shola for leading by example. It’s been an honor to know Shola for the past 7 years. My quality of life continues to improve because of his message and light. So happy that more people around the world will have the opportunity to connect with him and hear his loving words and powerful stories.