First Nations Leadership Philosophies: A Systematic Review of Recent Academic Literature

This systematic review of recent academic literature consolidates and legitimises the relevance of First Nations leadership philosophies within contemporary organisational settings. Studies conducted in Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and the United States suggest a highly integrated, multi-generational, and holistic social-ecological philosophical grounding of leadership interpretation and practice among First Nations peoples. Thematic analysis indicates a cultural legacy of community-mindedness and individual identity, represented through a sense of belonging and intergenerational responsibility, informs and guides First Nations leadership practices. Theoretical alignments are drawn to self-determination, social-ecological connectivity, collective memory, and Bourdieu’s theoretical framework as possible applications of First Nations leadership philosophies to address the United Nations (UN) sustainability agenda. The importance of understanding and integrating First Nations leadership philosophies and perspectives is evident as global economic, social, and environmental sustainability challenges prevail and intensify. The findings of this review of recent literature are expected to edify future studies aimed at better understanding First Nations leadership philosophies to encourage greater inclusivity within contemporary leadership scholarship, governance, and practice and progress the UN sustainability agenda.