“Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be your slave” – Matthew 20:26-27
Between 1982 and 2007, I had the occasion to visit Singapore four times. Over those 25 years, I witnessed firsthand the remarkable transformation of this small island nation, the miracle that is Singapore.
In the 18 years since then, Singapore has not only maintained but reinforced its first-world status. Barbados, however, continues to face challenges despite both countries gaining independence just a year apart, in 1965 and 1966, respectively.
One of the more memorable experiences came during my last visit to Singapore in 2007. Dr Carlisle Boyce, a Barbadian then residing in Singapore, my son Bevan and I were hosted by the Singapore Economic Development Board. They presented “C.O.R.E. values – The Singapore Advantage,” which chronicled Singapore’s astounding success story.
Since 1993, I have written extensively about applying the Singapore model to Caribbean governance. However, many readers who have never even been to Singapore would be quick to tell me why it would not work in Barbados. Yet, as corporate governance challenges persist across the Caribbean, I sense a gradual shift in attitudes. The resistance to applying the Singapore model may be waning, so I am getting back on the soapbox once again.
Why benevolent leadership matters
For small island developing states like ours, benevolent leadership is not a luxury—it is a necessity. As we navigate increasingly complex challenges, including climate vulnerability, economic volatility, and social fragmentation, we must go beyond charisma and short-term politicking.
Benevolent leadership offers a model built on trust, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to the common good. This style of leadership emphasises kindness, empathy, and moral responsibility. It requires leaders who are deeply connected to their people, understanding their hopes, fears, and potential. Such leaders foster a collaborative environment where decisions are driven by evidence, not partisanship, and where policies are shaped for long-term societal benefit.
These qualities are more than ideals; they are foundational tools for nation-building.
The Singapore Model
Singapore, like many Caribbean nations, is a small island state. Yet, it stands as a powerful example of how benevolent leadership can translate into lasting prosperity.
At the heart of Singapore’s success is a commitment to national interest above short-term political rewards. From its early days of independence, the country’s leaders embraced governance grounded in meritocracy, long-range planning, and rigorous consultation. The result is one of the world’s most resilient and prosperous societies. The emphasis has always been on integrity in public service, as well as investment in education, healthcare, and infrastructure, all underpinned by forward-thinking policies.
Lessons for the Caribbean
What can the Caribbean learn from this?
1. Leadership as Stewardship
Leadership must be about stewardship, where data—not dogma— guides our leaders. We need to institutionalise strategic planning that extends beyond five-year election cycles. Vision must be aligned with actionable plans, and those plans must be held accountable through transparent governance systems.
2. Building Trust Inclusively
Trust must be earned and nurtured, particularly in societies with colonial legacies and deep social inequalities. Benevolent leadership demands the deliberate inclusion of marginalised voices. Active consultation, equitable distribution of resources, and policymaking that uplifts both the hillside farmer and the tech-savvy youth are vital.
3. Moral Leadership
Equitable leadership in both public and private sectors is critical for communities to thrive, not only in words but in deeds. This calls for rooting out corruption, investing in young leaders, and creating systems that reward innovation and integrity.
4. Prioritising Happiness and Well-Being
We must aim for societal happiness, not just economic growth. A hopeful, cohesive, and safe society is more productive and resilient. True progress comes when citizens feel respected, empowered, and free to pursue their aspirations.
A New Leadership Paradigm
As Caribbean people, we are no strangers to hardship or ingenuity. However, to make a quantum leap in sustainability, resilience, and well-being, we must champion a new style of leadership—one that is both effective and benevolent.
The Singapore model offers a valuable framework, but we must adapt it to our unique cultural and historical context. Let us take this path forward with clarity, courage, and compassion as we secure a prosperous future for our region.
Dr Basil Springer GCM is a corporate governance adviser. His email address is basilgf@marketplaceexcellence.com. His columns may be found at https://www. nothingbeatsbusiness.com.
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