Inclusive leadership and authenticity at work among South African professionals of colour: The role of psychological safety and gender

Waseemah Patel¹, Laura Lorente^2,*, Felipe Bravo-Duarte³
1 Faculty of Commerce and Law, Eduvos, 8000, South Africa
2 IDOCAL, Universitat de València, Valencia, 46010, Spain
3 Facultad de Psicología, Universidad UNIACC, Providencia, 7501331, Chile
* Corresponding Author: Laura Lorente. Email: email

Journal of Psychology in Africa https://doi.org/10.32604/jpa.2025.071560

Received 07 August 2025; Accepted 05 September 2025; Published online 19 January 2026

Download PDF

Abstract

This study examined the relationship between inclusive leadership and authenticity at work in racial minority groups of South Africa, taking into account the mediating role of psychological safety and the moderator role of gender, in that relationship. The sample was composed of 94 employees predominantly working in the professional services sector from South Africa (41.5% females; mean age = 37.1), who self-identified as racial minority groups (coloured/black/Indian). Results indicate that inclusive leadership has no direct effect on authenticity at work; however, psychological safety fully mediates this relationship. Regarding the moderation effect of gender, results showed that males are more likely to diminish their self-alienation (a specific component of authenticity at work) when levels of psychological safety are higher. These results are consistent with Social Identity Theory, which posits that individuals derive part of their self-concept from their membership in social groups. In contexts where inclusive leadership fosters psychological safety, individuals (particularly men in traditionally male-dominated work environments) may feel a stronger sense of belonging and group identity, which in turn enhances their willingness to express their authentic selves and reduces self-alienation. Practical implications for companies include the need to improve leadership styles to foster more of an inclusive and psychologically safe culture, where minority groups can be authentic and flourish.