Jacinda Ardern on Leading with Emotion: Why Empathy Works in Kiwi Leadership

In this powerful talk, former New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern explains why bringing human emotion into leadership isn’t weakness — it’s strength. From guiding Aotearoa through terror attacks, pandemics, and global scrutiny, Ardern’s unique style of leading with empathy, compassion, and clarity has redefined what effective leadership looks like — not just for New Zealand, but for the world.

This message deeply resonates across the Kiwi landscape, where manaakitanga (care and respect) is part of our cultural fabric, and where citizens increasingly expect leaders to be both accountable and authentic. For young New Zealanders, Māori and Pasifika leaders, women in politics, and community organisers, Ardern’s words serve as a blueprint for how emotional intelligence can build trust, unity, and results.

As leadership across sectors in NZ faces new pressures — from climate adaptation to cost-of-living struggles — Ardern’s approach invites a fresh conversation: Can we lead with heart and still make hard decisions? Her answer: absolutely.

Whether you're an Auckland startup founder, Wellington policy advisor, school principal, or university student, this perspective challenges traditional ideas of power and shows that emotional leadership is not only viable in New Zealand — it’s vital.

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Daniel Chyi 戚钊

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