International Institute For Global Leadership
Issue #281 *May 2025
www.global-leadership.com
Asheville, NC USA
Guest Editorial
Critical Thinking
Mwesigwa Enock Joseph (Uganda)
Mwesigwajoseph@gmail.com
The main idea in Critical Thinking by Bruce N. Waller is that critical thinking is not just about logic and reasoning; it is about questioning assumptions, recognizing biases, and making rational, well-informed decisions. The book has helped me see how cognitive biases, social pressures, and emotions can cloud judgment, and it provides practical tools to think more clearly. This is especially relevant to me because I have experienced moments where doubt, external influence, or emotional reactions have affected my decision-making. Whether it was questioning my faith, navigating career choices, or managing relationships, I now realize how crucial it is to step back, evaluate evidence, and challenge my assumptions. This book builds on what I learned in Crucial Conversations, helping me not only communicate better but also think more critically about the information I receive and the arguments I engage with.
Below are some key points I found to be important:
Confirmation bias is everywhere: This idea hit home because I have seen how easy it is to seek out information that confirms what I already believe, whether in faith, work, or personal decisions. I have done this before, especially when I was struggling with doubts. For example, during my period of religious doubt, I found myself selectively reading only materials that reinforced my scepticism rather than considering a broader range of perspectives. Now, I realize how essential it is to actively seek opposing viewpoints, even when they make me uncomfortable.
Questioning authority is healthy: I was raised in an environment where questioning authority was not always encouraged. But Waller makes it clear that just because someone is an expert (or in a position of power) doesn’t mean they are always right. I have learned that respectfully challenging ideas, even from respected figures, is a key part of growth and independent thinking.
Emotions can interfere with rational thinking: I have made decisions in the heat of the moment, whether out of frustration, excitement, or fear, only to regret them later. This book reinforced that emotions are not the enemy, but they must be managed so they do not cloud judgment. It is something I want to work on, especially in high-stakes situations.
Cognitive dissonance is uncomfortable but necessary: This one reminded me of my journey back to faith. Holding two conflicting beliefs is mentally exhausting, but instead of avoiding that discomfort, I now see it as a sign that I need to think deeper and explore new perspectives. Growth happens in that tension.
Logical fallacies are everywhere: This was a humbling realization. I have sometimes accepted weak arguments because they sounded persuasive. Recognizing fallacies like slippery slopes or false dilemmas helps me avoid being misled, whether it is in conversations, politics, or even marketing tactics.
The power of scepticism: In meetings, interviews, or project reviews, I used to feel pressure to always contribute, fearing that silence might be seen as a weakness. But this rule taught me that wisdom is often in restraint. There is power in listening, processing, and then speaking with purpose. It is a lesson I apply more often now, especially when navigating academic presentations, work discussions, or even personal conflicts.
Critical thinking is a skill, not a trait: This was encouraging. Being a better thinker is not about being born with a certain type of brain; it is a skill that can be developed. That means I can keep improving, challenging myself, and refining the way I analyse situations. It is an ongoing process, and I want to be intentional about practicing it daily.
What Others Are Saying
Why IIGL?
Okot Stephen (Uganda)
Stephenokot79@gmail.com
As a proud 38th Graduate of IIGL, I am committed to using my skills and experience to drive positive change and development in my community and beyond. I am also eager to join the IIGL alumni; where I can continue to contribute to IIGL’s activities and future plans!
My vision is to become a transformational leader and social entrepreneur, driving inclusive and sustainable development. I aspire to launch a social enterprise and leadership initiatives that generate local employment, address community challenges, and spark grassroots innovation throughout Uganda and beyond. The IIGL program was a transformative experience, deepening my understanding of conscious leadership and the power of self-awareness in driving change. As a proud graduate, I remain committed to advancing community development and contributing to a global network of change-makers.
What are Students are Reading
The Biography of Nelson Mandela (Ebook)
When Nelson Mandela was released from prison after 27 years on 11 February 1990, the eyes of the world were on South Africa. He was the most iconic figure in the fight against apartheid, the political regime established in 1948 which institutionalized racial segregation in all aspects of life in South Africa. Images of his release were broadcast across the world and inspired hope of a better future for the country. When he left prison, his fist raised in a victory salute and welcomed by an enthusiastic crowd. His last speech before he was sentenced was at the forefront of everyone’s minds. The extraordinary story of Nelson Mandela – who also went by the name Madiba, in homage to his ancestors’ clan was far from over. After his release, he played an important role in the negotiations between his party, the ANC, and the South African regime, which resulted in the dismantling of apartheid and the organization of the country’s first democratic elections. When he was elected president of the new “Rainbow Nation” in 1994, he faced the difficult task of leading South Africa down the long and bumpy road to reconciliation, assuaging the fears of the country’s white citizens and fulfilling the hopes of its black citizens.
Students/Graduates In Action
IIGL’s First Graduate Publishes a New Book!
The International Centre for Leadership Development Nigeria – ICLDNG is proud to announce that the book: Cybercrime: Awareness and Prevention Handbook written by IIGL’s First Graduate and Nigerian National Coordinator Felix Iziomoh (Nigeria) is now available on www.amazon.com:
https://www.amazon.com/…/978782…/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0…
In today’s digital age, the internet is an integral part of our daily lives, connecting us to people, businesses, and services globally. However, with this vast digital landscape comes the risk of cybercrime illegal activities conducted via the internet, such as identity theft, phishing, hacking, and online fraud. This handbook aims to raise awareness about cybercrime, outline common types, and provide practical steps to protect oneself from becoming a victim. Furthermore, By purchasing this book, you’ll not only be empowering yourself with knowledge, but you’ll also be directly supporting our ongoing efforts to raise awareness and promote safer online practices. Feel free to email directly for more information at: flelixi@gmail.com. Congratulations Felix!
Valuable Resources for Personal and Planetary Transformation
Luminosity.com
Agra.org
At Lumos Labs, they believe in helping people keep their brains challenged. That’s why they created a simple online tool to allow anyone to train core cognitive abilities. From neuroscience to visual art, they combine many diverse disciplines to create an engaging brain training program making cognitive research available to everyone. Through the Human Cognition Project, they collaborate with over 100 leading researchers, clinicians and teachers from institutions around the world.
News
2025-2026 Board of Director Nominations
Once again it is time to establish the 2025-2026 IIGL Board of Directors! Active students working on Level Two studies and higher may be considered. Also IIGL graduates and contributors are eligible. The deadline is May 10, 2025. Please email Lynda Eze, at uniqueuju91@gmail.com, our current IIGL President if you have any questions or Deb at drosen2@wi.rr.com.
2025 IIGL Annual Meeting Date Set for May 17
IIGL will be holding its Annual Meeting on Saturday May 17, 2025 via Zoom. Please look for a reminder on the IIGL Message Board for directions sent by Cheu Pswarayi (IIGL Corresponding Secretary) about how to join the meeting via Zoom. This reminder email will be sent by May 15 and will include the timing for the meeting. Email Deb or simply reply to this newsletter if you have questions. All financial contributors, graduates and active students are invited!
Help IIGL Recruit New Students!
Feel free to share this newsletter or just this poster with your friends, family, co-workers and colleagues to help IIGL continue to grow and flourish globally! Thank you to those who have referred others!
IIGL Book Sales Continue…
The IIGL Board of Directors shared that the IIGL book, “Creating Your Path Through Leadership” book sales continue to provide a Royalty payment to IIGL each month. It has also helped new potential donors understand more about IIGL! The book is available both on Kindle and in Paperback on Amazon.com! Check it out! Here’s the link: https://www.amazon.com/s/ref=dp_byline_sr_book_1…
Meet Our New Students
We had x new students this month
Mercy Mwende (Kenya)
I was born and raised in the hills of Kilimabogo, Machakos county. I am the first born from a family of 12 children 5 girls 7 boys. I am a mother and wife; I have 4 children. I did not want to have many children like my parents. While growing up we had to scramble for resources, because we were many. My father was a peasant farmer, and it was difficult for him to feed us, even clothing going to school it was a challenge, my mother had to do all sorts of work for us to get food to eat. From that experience I vowed that I will not have many children.
Imane Echchikhi (Morocco)
With a strong background in migration, refugee affairs, and social protection, I am deeply committed to humanitarian work and policy development. I hold a Master’s degree in Migration and Refugee Affairs from the Instituto Séneca and have pursued various specialized certifications to enhance my expertise in these fields. My academic and professional journey is driven by the goal of advocating for vulnerable communities, influencing policy decisions, and fostering sustainable social support systems.
James Claude Mutyaba (Uganda)
I am a certified program supervisor, capacity building specialist, researcher, climate action activist . By founding Empowerment for the Poor-Uganda, James’s mission is to build confidence of vulnerable individuals and families to dream and then connect them to opportunities which help to break their barriers and live to their full potential.
To view complete profiles, Click Here
Student Progress
We had 9 students from 4 countries complete a total of 22 books in April. These students were from Kenya, Morocco, Nigeria and Uganda.
Kisilu Kalu (Kenya)
* PsychoCybernetics
Methusela Kibet (Kenya)
* Leadership for Dummies
Francis Maundu (Kenya)
* The Biography of Martin Luther King Jr.
Mercy Mwende (Kenya)
* As a Man Thinketh
* Jonathan Livingston Seagull
Imane Echchikhi (Morocco)
* As a Man Thinketh
* Jonathan Livingston Seagull
Nadia Echchikhi (Morocco)
* PsychoCybernetics
Michael Kelechi (Nigeria/UK)
* Drive
Mutyaba James Claude (Uganda)
* As a Man Thinketh
* Jonathan Livingtston Seagull
Mwesigwa Enock Joseph (Uganda)
* Critical Thinking
* Full Steam Ahead
* How to Sell Yourself
* Go Pro
* Good Leaders Ask Great Questions
* Martin Luther King Jr.: A Biography
* Nelson Mandela; A Biography
* The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership
* The World of VUCA
* This Child Shall be Great
* Conversations with God
The following students have completed one or more levels of study this month
Methusela Kibet (Kenya) completed Level Two
Francis Maundu (Kenya) completed Level Four
Mwesigwa Enock Joseph (Uganda) completed Level Four and Five
Stephen Okot (Uganda) completed Level Seven and became IIGL’s 38th Graduate! Congratulations!
Statistics
New Enrollments
1 enrolled in April
12 enrolled in 2025
Book Assessments
22 in April
62 in 2025
Books Shipped
0 in April
4 in 2025
Cost of Books
$0 in April
$73.20 in 2025
You Make It Possible
We extend a special thanks to the following individuals and/or organizations who contributed to IIGL last month. Your ongoing support makes this work possible.
Deb Silver (Israel)
Lynne Murguia (USA/AZ) In Blessed Memory
John Hornecker (USA/NC)
Michael Lightweaver (USA/NC)
Judith Royer (USA/SC)
Lynda Eze (USA/TX)
Deb Rosen (USA/WI)
Kathleen Oweegon (USA)
Make A Difference
Dream Team 22
Please join Dream Team 22 as our goal is to have 22 people contributing $22 per month. We understand that money is energy and that to sustain and build IIGL we need a lot of people pouring their energy into this endeavor on a regular basis. We also know that not everyone can afford to commit $22 a month – especially our students, who live in countries with economies in which this amount can be equal to a weeks’ salary. So we are offering two options for those who wish to become a part of the Dream Team. One can commit to a $22 a month contribution or to spending 22 seconds each day holding the vision of IIGL becoming financially sustainable by the end of 2025!
Please join the Dream Team and help us create an energetic foundation to support the transformational work of IIGL! You can really make a difference in the world by making a modest contribution of time or money. To make the $22 a month commitment or a one time donation, click the link below. To become a member of the Dream Team 22 by committing 22 second a day to help us hold the vision, contact Deb for details: drosen2@wi.rr.com
Checks on US banks, payable to the International Institute For Global Leadership, can be mailed to IIGL, 11537 N. Lake Shore Drive, Mequon, WI 53092 USA. Contributions may also be made by credit card by clicking the link below. Contributions are tax deductible under the 501 (c) 3 tax code of the United States Internal Revenue Service.
To Contribute By Paypal, go to www.paypal.com and make donation to iigl.globalleadership@gmail.com
To Contribute By Credit Card, go to global-leadership.com