The Authentic Leader: Leading with Virtue in Challenging Times

When I think about all the leaders I admire and strive to emulate, one thing that stands out in all of them is their principled character. In 2022, I was blessed with the opportunity to intern at the Carter Center as part of its Educational Programs. Through this internship, I learned about the late President Jimmy Carter—his humble upbringing and his inspiring work as both a political leader and humanitarian. In a society filled with prejudice and self-seeking individuals, he chose to use his position as a leader to promote the preservation of human dignity and equality, not only in the United States but across the world. His impact through the initiatives at the Carter Center is unmatched and will continue to thrive as the many hearts he touched carry on his legacy. Jimmy Carter is one of the few leaders who did not let power and authority diminish his sense of virtue.

Today, the challenges we face are greater than we could have ever imagined—climate change, poverty, oppression, war—the list goes on. Everyone is affected, whether on a large or small scale. In times like these, humans tend to go into survival mode—everyone for themselves. We see less of others’ struggles and more of our own. Our compassion for our neighbors’ needs grows cold. So what kind of leader do we need to ensure that each nation, state, and community develops peacefully and harmoniously?

A leader who is brave enough to distinguish right from wrong—and act accordingly. Unfortunately, many leaders give powerful and promising speeches but fail to fulfill their commitments. Someone who practices what they preach earns the trust of the people instantly. No matter what kind of opposition they face, they put their hands to work and deliver tangible results. That does not mean all problems will be solved, but it opens up opportunities for growth and progress.

A leader who listens to the people and makes rational decisions that prioritize their needs. One of the hallmarks of dictatorship and oppression is showing no concern for the cries and pleas of the people. A leader must understand that they represent the people, not themselves. Servant leadership is a rare but invaluable quality that all leaders must possess to truly fulfill their duty. When greed takes hold of a person in power, their focus shifts entirely to themselves, and the people suffer.

One final and invaluable virtue that every leader must embody is sacrifice. The leaders who chose to put their lives on the line to fight for justice are among the most revered figures in history. Think of Martin Luther King Jr., Nelson Mandela, and Wangari Maathai—their journeys were full of suffering because they chose to stand for the good of the people. Their lives are celebrated because they embodied true service and sacrifice. Recently, we also bid farewell to the highly esteemed President Jimmy Carter, and every message I read about him was filled with genuine gratitude and reverence for his dedication to serving and loving humanity.

If all our leaders upheld the same level of virtue in their duties, the world would be a better place. Yet, the only person I can change is myself. Wherever you are, choose to be the virtuous leader who never falters under the demands of this generation. As Gandhi beautifully said, “Be the change you want to see.”