Reflections on Authentic Leadership from My First Group Relations Conference

Last week, I had the privilege of attending my first Group Relations Conference as part of my terminal degree at the Tavistock Centre.

Group Relations, rooted in the pioneering work of Wilfred Bion in the 1940s, offers a distinctive and immersive way of studying groups and the self in relation to others. It is not simply theoretical—it is experiential, challenging you to explore leadership, authority, and identity in real time.

One theme resonated deeply with me: authentic leadership.

How do we bring our true selves to influence organisational change?

This question echoed throughout the conference and within me. In a world where “authenticity” dominates leadership discourse, what does it truly mean to lead authentically?

How much of yourself should you bring to the task?

How do you embrace vulnerability—not as weakness, but as recognition that learning is painful?

Because learning often means letting go of something to gain something new.

This reflection could not come at a better time for Mental Capacity Building (MCB) as we prepare for an exciting year ahead. In 2026, we will be launching our Coaching and Organisational Development arms of the business. Kariba Rhooms Valene Lockhart 

At MCB, we believe leadership transformation begins with relational learning—understanding the dynamics between self and system. Our aim is to help leaders and organisations make deep, sustainable, and transformational advances by embracing authenticity and the complexity of human systems.

Here’s to a year of growth, courage, and authentic leadership.

What does authentic leadership mean to you? How do you navigate vulnerability in your role? Share your thoughts—I’d love to hear your perspective.