This study investigates transcultural leadership’s role in navigating organisations through the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) towards sustainable development, with a focus on the South African context. It examines the intersection of digital transformation with key sectors like energy transition, circular economy, and sustainability, advocating for leaders to blend global sustainability aims with local cultural insights. Through a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative focus group discussions with a meta-analysis of literature, the research captures the nuanced interplay between digital maturity and sustainable practices. The findings highlight transcultural leadership as vital for fostering transparency, reform, and digital progress, essential for aligning with Society 5.0 goals. This approach offers strategic insights into digital transformation that promotes sustainable and equitable growth. By engaging a diverse group of participants from various sectors, the study complements its empirical data, ensuring a comprehensive exploration of strategies for achieving sustainability in the 4IR era. This synthesis of leadership strategies and stakeholder insights provides valuable guidance for policymakers, business leaders, and scholars in addressing the 4IR’s challenges and leveraging its opportunities for sustainable development.