Developing Transformational Leadership Model to Effectively Include Persons with Disabilities in the Workplace

Abstract

The South African government has enacted various employment laws intended to promote the inclusion of persons with disabilities in the workplace. The legislation and policies are not, however, always effectively implemented, resulting in the exclusion of persons with disabilities in the workplace. Within this context, a multidisciplinary study incorporating leadership and the law is conducted to address the rationale behind the non-compliance with disability legislation. In addition, this study examines the role of transformational leadership and its contribution towards effective implementation of disability provisions. This study was conducted in a local government sector of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Data was collected through interviews with senior leaders responsible for implementing disability laws and to develop strategies to include persons with disabilities in the workplace. Employees with disabilities were also interviewed. A thematic analysis was utilised to discuss the data that arose from the interviews. Various themes have been created as a result thereof. This study finds that transformational leadership is an important approach to adopt in order to include and promote the participation of persons with disabilities in the workplace. The study therefore contributes to the development of a transformational leadership model to include persons with disabilities in the workplace.