By Ali Syarief
“When people from different languages and cultures come together, something new is born—not just communication, but new possibilities of being human together.” Kenshi Suzuki
In today’s increasingly interconnected world, borders are no longer barriers. Business, education, and even personal relationships transcend national, linguistic, and cultural boundaries. In this global context, learning about different cultures is not just beneficial—it is essential. For me, learning cross culture was not merely about understanding traditions or customs. It was a transformative experience that taught me how to lead across cultures with empathy, flexibility, and awareness.
One of the most powerful lessons I learned is that leadership across cultures requires more than technical skills or managerial authority. It demands cultural sensitivity and a deep appreciation for how people think, communicate, and make decisions differently. What may seem like a smart and efficient decision in one culture could be perceived as rude or insensitive in another. Leading across cultures taught me that successful leadership begins with listening—truly listening—with humility and an open mind.
Working in multicultural teams has also made me a more adaptive leader. I once collaborated on a project with team members from East Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. Each member brought their own perspective on time management, hierarchy, and group consensus. I quickly realized that I could not impose a single way of working. Instead, I had to foster an inclusive environment where everyone felt heard and respected. This taught me that leadership is not about control; it’s about connection.
Learning cross culture also shifted the way I define leadership itself. In multicultural settings, a leader is not only someone who achieves goals but someone who builds trust, honors cultural diversity, and unites people under a shared purpose. As Kenshi Suzuki, CEO of LEX/HIPPO Family Club, once said:
“When people from different languages and cultures come together, something new is born—not just communication, but new possibilities of being human together.”
This quote has stayed with me. It reminds me that cross-cultural leadership is ultimately about discovering and nurturing those “new possibilities” that arise when diverse perspectives meet. It’s not about tolerating difference—it’s about celebrating it and allowing it to expand our potential as individuals and as a community.
In conclusion, learning cross culture has shaped me into a more thoughtful and inclusive leader. It has taught me that the ability to lead in today’s world is rooted in curiosity, respect, and the willingness to grow beyond one’s own cultural lens. In a world that is more connected than ever before, the future belongs to those who can lead with cultural intelligence and a global heart.
