Ardern Speaks to Yale Graduates

Former New Zealand Prime Minister Dame Jacinda Ardern delivered the graduation speech at Yale University, urging students to lead with humility, curiosity, and compassion.

Speaking to thousands of graduates, Ardern talked about her own struggles with “imposter syndrome” and why she believes it can actually make people better leaders.

Ardern explained that imposter syndrome—the feeling that you’re not good enough—can lead people to listen more carefully, learn from others, and be more thoughtful in their decisions. “It can be a strength,” she said, “because it makes you curious and kind.”

She shared examples from her time leading New Zealand, including how the country responded to big challenges like Covid-19 and the cattle disease Mycoplasma bovis. Ardern said she was proud of saving lives by trusting experts and taking quick action. New Zealand, she noted, may be the first country to fully eliminate M. Bovis.

Graduates cheered when she mentioned New Zealand’s decision to ban semi-automatic weapons after the 2019 Christchurch mosque attacks. Ardern said tough times call for unity and care, not fear or turning away from the world.

She warned about “isolationism,” which is the idea of cutting off from other countries, and said it can be used in politics in a harmful way. “We are all connected,” she reminded the audience.

Ardern ended her speech by encouraging the students to use their sensitivity, humility, and empathy to make the world better. “The world needs your kindness now more than ever,” she said.