THE SIX TRIPLE EIGHT MORALE CHALLENGE FOR ORGANISATIONS

“The Six Triple Eight,” a Netflix film directed by Tyler Perry, captures the heroic yet often overlooked story of the United State’s 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion, an all-Black, all-female unit during World War II. Tasked with the monumental challenge of clearing a two-year backlog of mail under dire circumstances, the women of the Six Triple Eight embodied resilience, commitment, and innovation. This film, while rooted in a historical context, resonates with modern-day challenges in human resource management and organizational growth.

In 2025, as organizations grapple with evolving workplace dynamics, the lessons from this movie are profoundly relevant. The story of the Six Triple Eight underscores the pivotal role of morale, a critical element that HR professionals must prioritize to ensure productivity, inclusivity, and organizational resilience.

Understanding Morale: A Strategic HR Priority

Morale, as defined by various organizational behavior studies, is the collective emotional and psychological state of a workforce. High morale is synonymous with increased productivity, creativity, and organizational loyalty. Conversely, low morale can result in absenteeism, high staff/Labour turnover rates, and reduced efficiency.

In “The Six Triple Eight,” morale was both a challenge and a lifeline. The battalion operated in a foreign land, faced racial discrimination, and worked in harsh conditions. Despite these adversities, their leaders fostered a sense of purpose and camaraderie, inspiring the team to clear over 17 million pieces of mail in just six months. This achievement exemplifies the transformative power of morale, even in the most challenging circumstances.

The Workforce Challenges in 2025

1. Diversity and Inclusion

The 6888th Battalion faced systemic discrimination yet rose above it through unity and purpose. Today, organizations increasingly emphasize Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). However, fostering inclusivity requires more than policy declarations. HR leaders must create environments where diverse voices are valued and empowered. A McKinsey report from 2020 highlights that companies with greater gender and ethnic diversity outperform their peers by up to 25%.

2. Crisis Management

The women of the Six Triple Eight operated in a crisis—war, dwindling resources, and an urgent backlog. Similarly, modern organizations face crises such as economic downturns, pandemics, and geopolitical tensions. Department/team leaders must develop proactive crisis management strategies, emphasizing transparent communication, mental health support, and workforce resilience.

3. Employee Well-being and Mental Health

The film subtly portrays the emotional toll of the battalion’s mission. Today, mental health is a primary concern for Human Resources practitioners. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), depression and anxiety disorders cost the global economy an estimated $1 trillion annually. Organizations must prioritize mental health initiatives, including access to counselling, flexible work arrangements, and fostering a supportive culture.

4. Purpose-Driven Leadership

Leadership played a pivotal role in the success of the 6888th Battalion. Major Charity Adams, the commanding officer, led with vision and empathy, inspiring her team to achieve the seemingly impossible. For organizations in 2025, purpose-driven leadership is critical. Leaders must articulate a clear vision, inspire teams, and model the values they wish to instil.

Strategies for Organizational Leaders in 2025

1. Building Resilience Through Training

Investing in resilience training can equip employees to navigate challenges effectively. Lessons from the Six Triple Eight emphasize the importance of adaptability and perseverance.

2. Enhancing Diversity Equity and Inclusion Efforts

Organizations must go beyond surface-level diversity metrics. This includes mentoring underrepresented groups, conducting bias training, and ensuring equitable growth opportunities.

3. Leveraging Technology for Employee Engagement

Artificial Intelligence and Human Resources analytics can be used to monitor employee sentiment, identify burnout risks, and tailor engagement initiatives. Tools like Microsoft Viva and Slack offer platforms for fostering collaboration and connectivity.

4. Recognizing and Rewarding Contributions

Just as the Six Triple Eight’s efforts were eventually acknowledged with a Congressional Gold Medal decades later, modern HR practices should emphasize timely recognition. Celebrating employee contributions boosts morale and fosters loyalty.

“The Six Triple Eight” is more than a historical drama; it is a masterclass in leadership, resilience, and the power of purpose. As organizations navigate the complexities of 2025, the lessons from this story remain strikingly relevant. By prioritizing morale, embracing diversity, and fostering resilience, Company leaders can address the challenges of the modern workplace and drive sustainable growth. The legacy of the Six Triple Eight reminds us that, with the right mindset and leadership, even the most daunting obstacles can be overcome.

©Omoniyi Mafikuyomi –Practices Internal Audit in Nigeria