Two visionary women leaders—Ndeye Absa Gningue, a Senegalese entrepreneur and technology enthusiast, and Funke Nnennaya Michaels, a dynamic thought leader of Kenyan and Nigerian heritage—have recently co-authored a compelling new book titled Modern Leadership: Inspired by Mother Nature.
Following its successful launch in Dakar, Senegal, the Amazon best-seller is now set to be introduced to Gambian audiences from May 16th to 18th, 2025.
With the slogan ‘Harness Nature’s Wisdom To Transform Your Leadership Journey’, the book offers a revolutionary approach to women leadership, merging the timeless wisdom of nature with cutting-edge business strategies.
According to the co-authors, this book reveals how the principles of balance, resilience, and adaptability found in the natural world can empower women business leaders to navigate today’s complex challenges.
“The book discovered how to cultivate resilience and adaptability by emulating natural systems. As well as the secrets to fostering a thriving work environment through balance and harmony,” they revealed while noting that the book shows practical strategies for leading with purpose and clarity inspired by nature’s ecosystems. It also gives insights into sustainable leadership practices that drive long-term success.
Explaining further about the book, the co-authors noted that it is a game-changer for business leaders seeking to align their wisdom and strategies with the rhythms of nature. They called on all and sundry to dive into this transformative guide and elevate their business leadership skills to new heights.
They finally encouraged everyone to grab a copy and start leading with the wisdom of the natural world. The book is available at Timbooktoo Bookstore in Bakau.
Authors biography
Funke Nnennaya Michaels, a dynamic leader with a rich cultural heritage, seamlessly blends her Nigerian and Kenyan roots with global perspectives. An accomplished academic and speaker, Funke’s journey began as a child-analyst and debater in Nigerian television, and she has since captivated audiences worldwide. With degrees from the University of Benin, MIT, and Harvard University JFK School of Government, she has held influential roles across academia, public policy, and brand management. Funke’s experience spans over 20 years, working with multinational brands like Coca-Cola and Samsung, and collaborating with governments and organizations across Africa, the Middle East, Europe, and the Caribbean. As an MIT Sloan Fellow and a Harvard Mason Fellow, Funke remains committed to fostering development through academia, entrepreneurship, and innovation, making her a sought-after voice in international forums and educational settings.
Ndeye Absa Gningue is a serial entrepreneur and technology enthusiast with extensive experience in global leadership. She began her career at the age of 20, holding prominent roles at IBM, Samsung Electronics, and Procter & Gamble where she took on managerial responsibilities on Sales, Marketing, and Business Development and led multicultural teams across Africa, the Middle East, and Turkey, and covering over 70 countries. At the age of 30, she transitioned into diplomacy, taking on the role of Senior Innovation Platform Officer at the African Development Bank, where she also manages the bank’s innovation and entrepreneurship lab. Since 2014, Absa has been the founder of JEADER, a renowned “Do Tank” that empowers youth through entrepreneurship in over 25 African countries. With a strong passion for the African creative industry, she launched ABC-Aduuna Bul Comprendre in 2011, a brand internationally recognized for its social impact. Additionally, Absa is a content creator known for her productivity planners and the SPIRITU’ELLES podcasts. Her work is a testament to her deep commitment to innovation, education, and social change across Africa.
