​The Courage to Lead: How to Empower Yourself and Others in 2025

Image by Aernout Bouwman from Pixabay

A few months ago, I had a conversation with ChatGPT that began with a simple question: Who owns it? This led to an explanation of OpenAI's unique structure, where a nonprofit oversees a for-profit subsidiary. While OpenAI claims to balance ethical AI development with funding needs, the mention of Microsoft’s $13 billion investment sparked scepticism. It raised broader concerns about how profit-driven corporations often prioritize financial gain over human well-being, especially in industries with profound societal impact.

As the conversation unfolded, it highlighted the troubling dynamics of modern technology—how addictive algorithms, data exploitation, and the push for a cashless society often serve the interests of the few. This points to a system where short-term profits frequently overshadow long-term sustainability, contributing to environmental destruction and social inequality. Yet, amidst this critique, there is a growing call for leaders and systems rooted in empathy, collaboration, and sustainability.

This conversation reminded me of an issue closer to home: the Treaty Principles Bill in New Zealand. This proposed law seeks to redefine how the government interprets the Treaty of Waitangi, a foundational agreement between the British Crown and Māori. While the Treaty was initially framed as a partnership, its history has been marred by mistranslation and systemic breaches, resulting in Māori losing land, sovereignty, and cultural heritage. Recent efforts to honour the Treaty’s principles have been a step toward reconciliation, but this bill threatens to reverse progress, narrowing the scope of the Treaty without meaningful Māori involvement.

This isn't just a Māori issue—it affects us all. If the government can undermine the Treaty, what’s to stop them from eroding other rights in the future? When my friend shared a tool to make a formal submission about the bill, it sparked deeper reflection: Is engaging with the system the best use of my time and energy?

At first, I hesitated. I’ve spent enough time "shouting at empty boats"—expending energy trying to be heard in systems that aren’t designed to listen. Over the years, I've come to realise that my efforts are often better directed elsewhere. Ultimately, I chose to focus on writing my books, which aim to inspire systemic change and reclaim sovereignty on a broader scale.

However, the importance of the Treaty feels too pressing to ignore. The Treaty is integral to New Zealand’s identity. Undermining it challenges fairness and justice, and misses the opportunity to build a richer, more inclusive society. So, I spoke up. I made a submission, urging that any redefinition of the Treaty’s principles must involve Māori in a meaningful way, respecting their role as partners in this agreement.

This experience reminded me of the delicate balance between addressing immediate challenges and focusing on long-term change. While my primary focus is on writing books like Reclaiming Healthcare and Reclaiming Education, this felt like a moment to stand up for values that matter—not just for Māori, but for all of us, and for future generations.

Then I went to watch Moana 2 at the cinema this week, and was moved by how its themes mirrored what I had just been reflecting on. The film’s messages of power, collaboration, and identity transcend its Polynesian roots, speaking to universal struggles.

Moana’s journey—her reflection on ancestors as voyagers and her reconciliation with Te Fiti—invites us to rethink how power is wielded today.

• Governments: Moana’s reminder that “We were voyagers once, daring and united” evokes the Māori concept of whakapapa, the interconnectedness of all things. Governments can learn from this, honouring past agreements and fostering collective good.
• Corporations: Moana’s reconciliation with Te Fiti reminds us of kaitiakitanga—guardianship over exploitation. Corporations, with their immense influence, must embrace stewardship, making choices that protect future generations.
• Organisations: Overwhelmed by leadership, Moana hears her grandmother’s wisdom: “The call isn’t out there at all; it’s inside me.” This reflects the Māori value of manaakitanga, emphasising trust and inclusivity. Organisations thrive when they align external missions with internal cultures, creating environments where every voice matters.
• Personal Leadership: Moana’s journey concludes not with dominance, but empowerment. She returns as a guide, helping her people reclaim their identity. Māori leadership through mana—humility, service, and connection—echoes this truth: true power uplifts others.

Answering the Call

Moana’s story reminds us that power rooted in connection, not control, can heal and unite. It’s a call to governments, corporations, and individuals alike to embrace collaboration, sustainability, and authenticity. "We were voyagers once," Moana reminds us. The question is: How will we answer the call?

For me, the answer lies in balancing action with vision. While my focus remains on writing books that inspire personal and systemic change, moments like these remind me of the importance of speaking up for the values that shape our collective future.

As we approach 2025, a time when many of us take a brief pause before diving into the new year, it’s the perfect moment for reflection. Moana 2 invites us to consider the uncharted territories in our own lives—those moments when we are called to explore or lead in new ways. Perhaps, like Moana, we are all navigating uncharted waters, finding strength in the unknown, and learning to trust in the wisdom of those who came before us.

Let’s reflect on these questions as we step into the future:

• Where in my life am I being called to explore or lead?
• How can I reconnect with the wisdom of those who came before me?
• What steps can I take to strengthen the connections in my life and community?

As Matangi, a new character in the film, shares: "There's always another way even if you have to get lost to find it." Embracing uncertainty and allowing ourselves to wander may be the only way to discover new solutions.

Moana’s own frustration, “Every time I think I know what I need to do, it changes,” highlights the value of adaptability. As we move into 2025, we must also embrace the fluidity of life’s journey. The only constant is change, and our resilience will carry us through.

The overarching message of Moana 2 is clear: “You don’t have to do it alone. We are stronger together.” In moments of uncertainty, it is our connections—our communities, families, and inner circles—that provide the strength we need.

Moana’s transformation into a wayfinder teaches us that true leadership doesn’t come from dominance, but from empowerment. Just as she embraced her role as a leader, we too must embrace our journey with courage, knowing that we will grow into the leaders we are meant to be.

As we step into 2025, may we find the courage to trust our paths, embrace change, and lean into the strength of our relationships and inner resilience. The ocean of possibilities is vast, and there is always another way—if we trust ourselves and each other, we will find it.

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If you enjoyed this post, you might also like Reclaim Your Power - How to Break Free from a World That Runs You, Crafting Your Path in a Changing World - Embrace Your Uniqueness and Make an Impact and The Path to Purpose and Clarity: How Healing Transforms Your Career Goals .