Jacinda
Ardern
As a former Prime Minister, she redefined national leadership by integrating well-being, equity, and climate resilience into economic and political decision-making. Under her leadership, New Zealand passed the Zero Carbon Act, introduced a Wellbeing Budget prioritizing social and environmental progress, and set new global benchmarks for inclusive and sustainable governance.
THE BACKGROUND
Jacinda Ardern became the Prime Minister of New Zealand at just 37 years old, quickly earning recognition for her leadership through some of the country’s most challenging moments, including the 2019 Christchurch terror attack, the White Island volcanic eruption, and the Covid-19 pandemic. Her approach has consistently been centered on people, kindness, and pragmatic idealism, which has led to groundbreaking policies on climate action, gender equality, and social justice. Through the “Zero Carbon Act” and her advocacy for sustainability, Ardern has worked to advance New Zealand's commitment to a more resilient and equitable future.
Jacinda's Leadership and Impact
As Prime Minister, Jacinda Ardern implemented transformative policies that reshaped New Zealand's approach to well-being, climate action, and social equity. Early in her role , she introduced the Wellbeing Budget, an initiative that shifted the focus from GDP to measures of well-being, mental health, and environmental sustainability. This redefined how success was measured at the national level.
Ardern’s leadership was also marked by significant environmental policies. The Zero Carbon Act was passed under her government, setting New Zealand on a path to carbon neutrality by 2050. Alongside this, she achieved 50% female representation in Parliament and introduced laws aimed at pay equity and extended paid parental leave.
In response to the Christchurch terror attack, Ardern introduced strict gun control measures, banning military-style semi-automatic weapons, and led the creation of the Christchurch Call to Eliminate Violent Extremism Online. This international initiative brought together leaders and tech companies to combat online extremism.
Ardern’s leadership earned her global recognition, including being named to Time's list of the 100 most influential people. She also received the Harvard Kennedy School Gleitsman International Activist Award for her work on social justice and sustainability. Her tenure continues to have an influence both in New Zealand and globally.
LOOKING AHEAD
Since leaving office, Jacinda Ardern has remained active in global leadership and sustainability. As a Trustee for The Earthshot Prize, she contributes to efforts that accelerate environmental solutions and drive systemic change.
Later this year, she will release her book A Different Kind of Power, a reflection on empathetic leadership, resilience, and the lessons learned from her time in office.
As Prime Minister, Jacinda Ardern implemented transformative policies that reshaped New Zealand's approach to well-being, climate action, and social equity. Early in her role , she introduced the Wellbeing Budget, an initiative that shifted the focus from GDP to measures of well-being, mental health, and environmental sustainability. This redefined how success was measured at the national level.
Ardern’s leadership was also marked by significant environmental policies. The Zero Carbon Act was passed under her government, setting New Zealand on a path to carbon neutrality by 2050. Alongside this, she achieved 50% female representation in Parliament and introduced laws aimed at pay equity and extended paid parental leave.
In response to the Christchurch terror attack, Ardern introduced strict gun control measures, banning military-style semi-automatic weapons, and led the creation of the Christchurch Call to Eliminate Violent Extremism Online. This international initiative brought together leaders and tech companies to combat online extremism.
Ardern’s leadership earned her global recognition, including being named to Time's list of the 100 most influential people. She also received the Harvard Kennedy School Gleitsman International Activist Award for her work on social justice and sustainability. Her tenure continues to have an influence both in New Zealand and globally.