In 2018, at just 37 years old, Jacinda Ardern shattered expectations, becoming the world’s youngest female leader. Simultaneously, a profound personal surprise unfolded – she discovered she was pregnant, just six days before assuming the role of New Zealand’s Prime Minister. Both events arrived unexpectedly, reshaping her trajectory.
She’d paused IVF treatment after a sudden leadership change within her party, thrusting her into the spotlight. Initially hesitant, fearing the weight of responsibility, Ardern ultimately embraced the challenge. Despite battling lifelong self-doubt, she stepped forward, fueled by a simple mantra: “Let’s do this!” Her genuine authenticity resonated deeply with voters, forging an immediate connection.
Ardern bypassed traditional political maneuvering, choosing instead to present her authentic self. This approach, she explains, was born of necessity – there simply wasn’t time for calculated image-crafting. Her leadership, rooted in kindness, empathy, and compassion, quickly garnered recognition, attracting admirers like Oprah and Prince William, who appointed her a trustee of his Earthshot project.
Despite her global prominence, Ardern remains remarkably grounded. Spotted in a hotel lobby, she blended in with unassuming attire – practical shoes, wide-legged trousers, and a well-worn backpack. She carried a coat hanger with her outfit for a movie premiere, a testament to her down-to-earth nature.
The premiere showcased “Prime Minister,” an intimate documentary offering a raw, unfiltered glimpse into her premiership. Produced by her husband, Clarke Gayford, the film aims to rehumanize politics, revealing the realities of leadership – including the practicalities of breastfeeding while running a nation.
Leading a country, particularly during a pandemic, proved immensely challenging, especially as a woman. Ardern acknowledges the increasing difficulty of the political landscape, marked by the “globalization of political culture” and the weaponization of fear and blame. She observes a rise in political grievance, where hostile acts are justified by perceived governmental failures.
The Christchurch mosque shootings in 2019, the deadliest terrorist attack in New Zealand’s history, left an indelible mark. Ardern admits she will never fully process the tragedy. The documentary offers a deeply personal account of her struggle to respond, navigating the immense weight of leadership during a time of national grief.
Adding to the complexity, Ardern became only the second elected world leader to give birth while in office. Her daughter, Neve, born on the birthday of Pakistan’s Benazir Bhutto, made history as the first baby to attend a UN General Assembly. Ardern describes the experience as a logistical feat, balancing the demands of leadership with the needs of a newborn.
She emphasizes the importance of teamwork and support, acknowledging that “having it all” doesn’t mean doing it alone. Her husband, Clarke, became a stay-at-home father, and she relied heavily on her family for assistance. Ardern believes a collaborative approach is essential for working mothers.
Despite her accomplishments, Ardern’s imposter syndrome persists. However, she reframes it not as a weakness, but as a motivator – driving her to prepare, research, and seek expert advice. In a world often dominated by assertive, even aggressive leadership, she suggests that a little humility might be precisely what’s needed.
Ardern’s story is a testament to resilience, authenticity, and the power of leading with compassion. It’s a reminder that even in the face of immense challenges, optimism and a commitment to humanity can pave the way forward.
