This work is based on a conceptualization of leadership as horizontal, inclusive, and participatory. The alternative leadership model responds to the need for leaders who aspire to create egalitarian, democratic societies based on collaborative decision-making and gender equality.

Women's groups in Cameroon, Ghana, Liberia, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Tanzania, Uganda and Zimbabwe are using the manual to help participants hone their skills for women's rights advocacy. A participant from Liberia described how she overcame intimidations from fellow cabinet members, and went on to implement major improvements to the ministry under her purview.