By Eloise Dumper
KidsScoop Media Correspondent,
age 13
I recently had the opportunity to interview Dame Jacinda Ardern, the former Prime Minister of New Zealand, at New Roads School in Los Angeles. She was visiting to discuss her new memoir, A Different Kind of Power, and I was immediately impressed by her genuine kindness and ability to connect with people on a personal level. I truly appreciated the effort she took to get to know both me and my fellow KidScooper, Allegra, for the interview,
I found Dame Jacinda’s story to be very inspiring, especially hearing about the numerous obstacles she has overcome. When I asked how her childhood desire to be “useful” translated into her adult life, she explained that her drive to enter politics stemmed from a deep-seated wish to improve the world.
Interestingly, she shared that transitioning away from politics upon her retirement was not difficult because she knew she could continue to do good for the world afterward. It became clear that her true passion wasn’t simply politics itself, but rather the broader goal of making the world a better place for everyone.
Among her many accomplishments, Ardern was instrumental in bringing the Women’s World Cup to New Zealand and Australia. A highlight she shared was when the New Zealand team secured their first-ever World Cup victory against Norway on home soil during the opening night. When I asked Dame Jacinda what she said to the team after this historic game, she recounted, “I started to give a little speech and just burst into tears” (Ardern, 2025). She emphasized that “it was incredible to have [the win] on home soil for such a significant game on the world stage.”
I also learned that an American political leader Ardern greatly admires is former President Franklin Delano Roosevelt (FDR). She spoke about his empathetic approach, noting, “It was a difficult time to be in charge, but he always took the time to explain to people why he was making the decisions he made” (Ardern, 2025). She recalled his famous “Fireside Chats,” and how people would stop their cars in the street just to listen to him on the radio.
Ardern herself embodies many of these values. Both she and FDR demonstrate strong communication that originates from their hearts and souls. They have also both navigated difficult times of leadership: FDR faced the challenges of the Great Depression and World War II, while Dame Jacinda led New Zealand through the complexities of the COVID-19 Pandemic.
These shared qualities highlight their compassionate and skillful leadership.
Jacinda Ardern is a powerful advocate for the people; As Prime Minister, she not only effectively communicated with her constituents but also genuinely listened to them. Dame Jacinda made a significant impact on the world during her tenure as Prime Minister of New Zealand, and I am eager to see how she will continue to contribute to making the world a better place through her new memoir and upcoming documentary.