Jacinda Ardern: Leading with Empathy, Resilience, and Vulnerability

Jacinda Ardern was a special guest in our MLD 355 Public Narrative class, taught by Professor Marshall Ganz, and her reflections on leadership offered powerful insights into what it means to lead with empathy, humility, and deep connection. Her response to the Christchurch mosque shootings in 2019 remains a profound example of how leadership, when anchored in compassion and vulnerability, can guide a nation through tragedy and foster healing and unity.

The Power of Empathy and Human Connection

One of the most powerful aspects of Jacinda Ardern’s leadership, as discussed in the class, is her embodiment of empathy. In the immediate aftermath of the Christchurch mosque attacks, where 51 people tragically lost their lives, Ardern’s response was marked by her decision to stand shoulder to shoulder with the Muslim community, not just as a leader but as a fellow human being.

She visited the victims’ families, wearing a hijab as a sign of solidarity, and expressed her sorrow. “It was the most humbling experience of my life that in the aftermath of something so horrific, there was no anger on their part,” Ardern reflected. The lack of bitterness in the wake of such violence, she noted, left a lasting impact on her as a leader, emphasizing the incredible power of forgiveness and solidarity.

Leadership in Vulnerability: Embracing Imperfection

During the class discussion, Ardern shared how her approach to leadership challenges the conventional notion that leaders must appear invulnerable. Instead, she humanizes herself, admitting mistakes and acknowledging that she, too, is fallible. “When you make a mistake, it’s easier for them to see that actually, you’re not that far away from where they are, and they make mistakes too,” Ardern said.

This openness builds trust and fosters a connection between leader and citizens that is far more powerful than authority alone. Her ability to connect through vulnerability makes it difficult for others to dehumanize her. In this way, she has shown that authenticity and relatability strengthen a leader’s bond with their community, especially in moments of crisis.

Humility and Gratitude: A Mutual Exchange

At the heart of Jacinda Ardern’s reflection on her leadership during the Christchurch tragedy is the theme of humility. The gratitude expressed by the Muslim community—those most deeply affected by the violence—was perhaps the most humbling aspect of her experience. Instead of anger, the community offered thanks to Ardern and New Zealanders for their compassion and support.

This exchange of gratitude speaks volumes about the transformative power of empathy-driven leadership. By leading with compassion and refusing to respond to hatred with anger, Ardern set the stage for a collective healing process that helped unite the nation against extremism and violence. The grace with which the Muslim community responded to their tragedy reinforced Ardern’s belief in the importance of listening and being present in leadership.

Leadership as a Force for Unity and Healing

Jacinda Ardern’s response to the Christchurch attacks was not just about offering words of comfort—it was about taking decisive action rooted in empathy and a commitment to safety. Shortly after the attacks, she introduced sweeping gun reform legislation in New Zealand, signaling that leadership must be backed by tangible actions that reflect the values of justice and protection for all citizens.

In her speeches during the National Remembrance Service, Ardern called for unity across all races, creeds, and backgrounds, emphasizing that violence and extremism have no place in New Zealand. Her leadership was not only about guiding a nation through grief but also about ensuring that the narrative of unity and peace would prevail in the face of hatred.

Grace in Times of Crisis: A New Leadership Paradigm

Ardern’s leadership during the Christchurch tragedy also highlighted the importance of collective healing. By standing with the Muslim community, she exemplified how a leader can act as a bridge, enabling a nation to confront loss and emerge stronger. In the face of unspeakable tragedy, she chose a redemptive response, helping New Zealanders move forward with hope, resilience, and a renewed sense of purpose.

Lessons for Aspiring Leaders

Jacinda Ardern’s leadership offers invaluable lessons for anyone aspiring to make a difference. Her focus on empathy, humility, and accountability serves as a reminder that true leadership is not about power, but about service. It is about showing up, even in the most difficult moments, with compassion and a commitment to the values that bind us together as human beings.

As we continue to navigate complex challenges in the world, the lessons of Jacinda Ardern’s leadership will continue to resonate. Her approach teaches us that leadership is not just about making the right decisions—it is about bringing people together, healing wounds, and building a future rooted in empathy, trust, and hope.