Helen Clark

Helen Clark served as Prime Minister of New Zealand for three consecutive terms from 1999 to 2008, where she led her country to significant economic growth, reduced unemployment, and increased investments in education and health sectors. During her tenure, her government prioritized reconciliation and settling historical grievances with New Zealand's indigenous people, and fostered a multicultural and multi-faith society.

She was then appointed as the Administrator of the United Nations Development Programme in April 2009, a role she held until April 2017, becoming the first female to lead the organization. In this capacity, she also chaired the United Nations Development Group. Clark was an advocate for sustainability and addressing climate change, aiming to establish New Zealand as a frontrunner in these global challenges.

Prior to her prominent political roles, Clark was first elected to Parliament in 1981 and was re-elected to represent her multicultural Auckland constituency ten times. Her earlier political career included roles such as Minister responsible for the portfolios of Conservation, Housing, Health, and Labour, and she served as Deputy Prime Minister from August 1989 to November 1990. Before entering politics, she taught in the Political Studies Department of the University of Auckland, where she also earned her bachelor's and master's degrees. Clark is also a member of the Council of Women World Leaders, mobilizing women leaders globally for collective action on issues critical to women and equitable development.