Episode 69: I See You - Behind Authentic Connection with Dr. Dr Nondumiso Makhunga- Stevenson

In this episode, we welcome Dr. Nondumiso Makhunga-Stevenson, founder of Ubuntu Doctor Coaching, for a deeply heart-centered conversation about authentic leadership, cultural wisdom, and reclaiming our humanity through connection. We explore how the ancient African principle of Ubuntu, “I am because you are”, can transform the way we lead, collaborate, and relate to one another. This dialogue is a reminder that healing doesn’t always require more doing, it often requires more seeing. 

Dr. Nondumiso shares her journey from medical doctor in South Africa to leadership coach in the U.S., and how she integrates Ubuntu into her work with physicians and teams worldwide. Whether you're in healthcare, corporate spaces, or community leadership, this episode will challenge you to ask: What becomes possible when we truly see one another? 

Key Takeaways: 

Ubuntu Is Humanity in Action 
Ubuntu is more than a philosophy, it’s a lived experience of honoring our interconnectedness. At its core, it teaches that “I am because you are.” We rise when we help others rise. Leadership through Ubuntu is not about power over others, but power with others. 

True Leadership Starts with Seeing 
When leaders begin with empathy and see their teams for who they are, not just what they do, they unlock loyalty, creativity, and collaboration. Co-creating with people, not just delegating to them, brings out the best in everyone. 

Legacy Is About People, Not Position 
What we leave behind isn't just in programs or projects, it’s in the people we’ve uplifted and empowered. Ubuntu reminds us to lead with intention, because our influence is often the most meaningful part of our legacy. 

This Is Not Woo, It’s Wisdom 
Ubuntu is ancient knowledge. Its roots are spiritual, intuitive, and deeply human. It’s not about religion or performance, it’s about restoring wholeness in how we relate to each other across cultures, organizations, and generations. 

Notable Highlights 

“I see you. I see all those who walk with you.” 
“Ubuntu means my humanity is tied to your humanity.” 
“Let people contribute to the process, and they become co-owners of the outcome.” 
“When we let go of micromanaging and lead from connectedness, leadership becomes a joy.” 
“Ubuntu isn’t just African, it’s universal. We’ve just forgotten.” 

About Dr. Nondumiso Makhunga-Stevenson 
Dr. Nondumiso is a South African-trained physician, leadership coach, and founder of Ubuntu Doctor Coaching. She works with physicians and organizations around the world, helping them integrate the principles of Ubuntu to create cultures of empathy, collaboration, and authentic leadership. She was the first doctor to become certified in Ubuntu Coaching, and she brings deep wisdom, cultural grounding, and personal humility to every conversation. 

 

Work with Dr. Nondumiso 
Website: https://www.ubuntudoctorcoaching.com  
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/physicianleadershipdevelopmentcoach  

 

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Hosted by: Dr. Maiysha Clairborne 

Communication is the foundation of everything, and everything happens in communication. If you’re ready to elevate the way you lead, connect, and collaborate, check out our Communication That Transforms course. You’ll learn how to build psychological safety, navigate crucial conversations, and foster trust with intention. 

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