Table of Contents
A leader that has made a significant contribution to many individuals and the world.
Early Life
- Date of birth: 4 August 1961, aged 57.
- Mr Obama was born and brought up in Hawaii, however lived in various countries throughout his childhood.
- The exposure of different cultures enhanced Mr Obama’s understanding and appreciation for other people’s faiths, beliefs and rituals. This contributes to his passion for equal rights for all people regardless of nationality, race or religion.
Education
- Mr Obama studied Law at Harvard University.
- Mr Obama also studied at various different universities, further developing his education.
- His significant and recognised work in politics began in 2004, this led to his election as president of the United States of America (USA).
Career
- Mr Obama was the forty fourth president of the USA.
- His duration in office began in 2009 and ended in 2017, serving two terms as president.
- Mr Obama was the first African American president, therefore making history.
- Mr Obama represented the Democratic party.
Contribution to The World
Within his two terms in office, Barack Obama contributed to the lives of many individuals, communities and the world as a whole. He made positive changes, through his initiatives and determined mindset. Approximately a year after his election, Mr Obama began delivering “change” (B, Obama) to the public. For example, cuts to taxes for working class people and families, whilst increasing tax payments for higher income earners. This work represented Mr Obama as a person that could relate to different class citizens.
In 2009, Mr Obama won the Nobel Peace Prize due to “extraordinary efforts to strengthen international diplomacy and cooperation between peoples” (Nobel Prize, 2009). This was a significant award as it globally recognised Mr Obama’s contributions, as a spokesman for the members of the public in regard to human rights. He described receiving this “honour with deep gratitude and great humility” (B, Obama. Nobel Prize, 2009). Due to Mr Obama receiving this highly esteemed award after such a short amount of time as president, it emphasised his determination and commitment to “change”, portraying his contributions which have led to this lasting impact.
Traits and Qualities
Barack Obama is an inspiration leader and a respected role model as he possesses essential leadership qualities. He focused on change, equality and commitment. When Mr. Obama was elected in 2008, he committed to creating “hope” and developing the “change that has come to America” (Barack Obama). Due to the fact that “change is never easy, but always possible” (Barack Obama). This quote highlights his determined and positive mindset, further reiterating his qualities and characteristics. Mr. Obama faced many challenges during his leadership in regard to horrific events that occurred in the USA, challenges from other politicians, countries and members of the public.
However, he modelled resilience, for example “The future rewards those who press on. I don’t have time to feel sorry for myself. I don’t have time to complain. I’m going to press on” (Barack Obama). Mr. Obama has said “Keep exploring. Keep dreaming… Never stop believing in the power of your ideas, your imagination, your hard word to change the world” (Barack Obama). Through these examples, it becomes apparent that Mr. Obama is a role model that gives hope to people. With positivity, calmness and focus he believed one could achieve their goal.
Another achievement made by Mr. Obama, using these skills, were his efforts to end the war with Iraq. The process to end the war was long, however he displayed persistence, calmness and exceptional negotiation skills, with success.
Mr. Obama uses these abilities in various situations. He demonstrates how people are able to achieve success through use of these qualities. This reveals Mr. Obama’s ability to relate to various personalities, acting as a role model and influence for all. As a result, it has become evident through the listed and various achievements, Mr. Obama has made a significant contribution to the USA and the world. Thus, being an inspirational leader that is respected by the vast majority. Many young children aspire to be like Mr. Obama through the positive impacts, he has made.
How these inspiring traits and qualities were developed
A significant contribution of how Mr. Obama acquired these traits, was due to his upbringing. His exposure to many cultures aided his understanding and accepting nature. He also spent much of his childhood with his grandparents who taught him the values and morals of life. The significance of family was highlighted by Mr. Obama in his present-elect victory speech in 2008; where he thanked “the family that made me who I am” (Barack Obama). However, throughout his time as president his passion of human rights grew. His active participation in social justice issue displayed how some characteristics are cultivated overtime.
Summary
As a result, it is evident that Barack Obama is an influential leader, that has made a significant contribution to the world, due to his aspirational traits and qualities. Through these qualities, such as his caring, determined and positive mindset, Mr. Obama has proven to be an outstanding leader and role model for the younger generation. Mr. Obama acquired these traits and qualities at a young age through learnt behaviours. However, his commitment and wide-spread work globally, have allowed him to cultivate and strengthen these overtime.