A visit by a famous, former prime minister has reinvigorated northern beaches students’ passion and dedication to their unofficial motto “Mackellar Girls Can Do Anything”.

Jacinda Arden, who was New Zealand prime minister from 2017 to 2023, met with Northern Beaches Secondary College, Mackellar Girls Campus, students as part of the school’s High Potential and Gifted Education program

Principal Kyle Scott said: “The program aims to remind students that the future is full of possibilities, and visits like Jacinda’s provide tangible examples of how school values translate into real-world success.”

For Mackellar students, the opportunity to hear from the former national leader, who has recently moved to Sydney’s northern beaches, was a standout event of Term 3 that provided inspiring advice about leadership and finding your path in life.

Ava Erskine, in Year 12, said: “Ms Ardern’s words of wisdom will stick with me for a long time to come.

“The main takeaway was that as long as you keep getting involved in things that you are passionate about and are interested in, the path you will end up following will eventually lead you to where you are meant to be, even if you could have never predicted it."

Mikaylah Wheeler, of Year 11, said she would cherish Ms Ardern’s advice for the rest of her life.

"I have learnt that believing in yourself is the most important thing in life and that you can accomplish anything you put your mind to,” she said.

Year 11 student Jada McLean said she was excited by the chance to meet Jacinda Ardern in person after many years admiring her from a distance.

“I really liked her idea that feeling like you aren't good enough or don't belong isn't necessarily a weakness, it can make you a better leader,” she said. “It can allow you to be more empathetic, humble and willing to listen to others rather than assuming you have all of the answers yourself."

Amelia Roberts, of Year 11, said she valued Ms Ardern’s advice to maintain a balance between school and other interests.

Year 11 student Violet Milne was grateful to meet Jacinda Ardern.

“It is so inspiring to realise that she has held the highest position in her country and has been and remained a kind and compassionate person,” she said.

Principal Kyle Scott said it was important for students to hear from role models who show that aspirational achievement was within reach of each student.

“Jacinda Ardern demonstrates that our four school values of participation, compassion, resilience and integrity are valuable well beyond school, and that potential lies within every one of us. All it takes is a spark to ignite it and the right support to help us grow,” he said.