Those Who Show Humanity Succeed Best in Life

At the successful Framadagar event held on January 22, the President of Iceland, Ms Halla Tómasdóttir, participated in an open discussion at Reykjavík University alongside Gunnar Þór Pétursson, Dean of the School of Law. Dr Ragnhildur Helgadóttir, President of Reykjavík University, opened the event.

Halla and Gunnar Þór discussed the nature of leadership, what is most required of leaders in today’s world, and what Halla has learned about leadership throughout her career. At the end of the session, guests were given the opportunity to ask Gunnar and Halla questions about the topic and how best to take the first steps into the job market. Open, engaging conversations were held between the President and the students.

Halla and Gunnar Þór discussed the nature of leadership.

Halla told the students that the most important thing is to decide who they want to be and where and how they want to use their abilities to benefit society. She also spoke about the five S’s — the qualities she considers most important for a successful career. The five S’s, she explained, are resilience, flexibility, collaboration skills, communication skills, and creativity. Halla added:

A true leader looks in the mirror and asks: How can I contribute? It is very important to know who you are and what you stand for, as character is extremely important in today’s working environment. I believe we are all born leaders, and the task of life is to bring out and develop the abilities a leader needs. We learn from all life experiences, and the greatest lessons often come from our mistakes. That is precisely why we should not be afraid to step outside our comfort zone.

Halla added that in the uncertain times we live in, it is important not to let fear take control. It is crucial to recognise the good and highlight what is done well. She said this is the way to unlock the strong and positive force that exists within society. When asked, Halla said she is most proud of her involvement in Riddarar Kærleikans. The project demonstrated the importance of bringing together a large group of people to work toward a common goal.

Open, engaging conversations were held between the President and the students. Here she greets the President of the Reykjavík University Student Association (SFHR), Særún Björk Jónasdóttir.

When Halla was asked what it is like to be a woman in a leadership role, she replied that what has served her best is being herself. “I believe, first and foremost, in sincerity. Nothing is more disarming than sincerity. Those who succeed best in life are those who are willing to work with others and show humanity.”