Second Female & 37th Prime Minister of New Zealand, Former Administrator of the UN Development Programme & Recipient of the New Zealand Women of Influence Lifetime Achievement Award

Helen Clark is a trailblazing political leader and the second woman to serve as Prime Minister of New Zealand, holding the role for nine years. Renowned for her progressive policies, she spearheaded transformative reforms in social welfare, sustainability, and international diplomacy. Her leadership championed gender equality, with women appointed to New Zealand’s highest offices under her tenure. An outspoken advocate for nuclear disarmament and global peace, Helen established her legacy as both a reformer and a unifier. Recognised worldwide, she is celebrated for her integrity, foresight, and ability to lead nations through change while inspiring future generations of leaders.

Helen Clark’s career began in New Zealand politics, where she rose through the Labour Party to serve in senior cabinet positions, including Minister of Health and Minister of Foreign Affairs. Her leadership skills and commitment to reform led her to become party leader, and she went on to serve as Prime Minister for three consecutive terms. During her tenure, she guided New Zealand through economic growth, strengthened international trade, and advanced key reforms in gender equality, social policy, and environmental sustainability.

After stepping down from national leadership, Helen was appointed as the first woman to lead the United Nations Development Programme, one of the largest global development organisations. In this role, she directed international initiatives on poverty reduction, democratic governance, crisis response, and the advancement of sustainable development goals. Her time at the UN positioned her as one of the most influential voices in global development and diplomacy.

Today, Helen continues to shape policy and governance worldwide. She chairs the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative and the Partnership for Maternal, Newborn & Child Health, and contributes to the Global Leadership Foundation. With numerous international awards recognising her achievements, she is widely respected as a transformative leader who continues to influence global progress.

Helen Clark has shared her expertise through influential publications and media contributions. She authored “Women, Equality, Power,” a collection of essays on leadership and gender equality, and has written extensively on global governance, climate action, and sustainable development. Frequently featured by international outlets including the BBC, CNN, and The Guardian, Helen provides expert commentary on world affairs. Her articles and interviews continue to shape the debate on political leadership and global progress.

Why Hire Helen Clark?

Booking Helen Clark gives audiences access to a globally respected leader with deep expertise in leadership, sustainability, and gender equality. As a former Prime Minister and head of a major UN agency, she brings unmatched experience and credibility to stages worldwide. Helen delivers speeches with clarity, authenticity, and authority—tailored to resonate with corporate, academic, or policy-focused audiences.

A standout moment in her speaking career was her TEDxAuckland talk titled “Yes She Can,” where she shared powerful insights on women’s leadership and empowerment—an inspiring call to action that has connected with many.

Helen has also delivered keynotes at major global forums focused on sustainable development and global governance, drawing from her own leadership journey to inspire action and change. Whether addressing equality, environmental stewardship, or effective governance, she offers practical lessons and motivation rooted in real-world experience—making her a dynamic and transformative addition to any event.

To book Helen to speak at your event, call SpeakOut on +44 (0) 20 8914 8966. Alternatively, complete our contact form to begin your enquiry