2008 Woodie Awards
Charity, coaching, and cars: the top 10 leaders of 2004
Sarah Mitchell
Issue date: 2/5/05 Section: Feature
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What does it take to become a good leader? While certain images may come to mind when we hear the term, it is difficult to determine exactly what transforms an ordinary person into a great leader. There are often characteristics which great leaders have in common: originality, authenticity, modesty. While some people argue that leaders are born, others believe that true leadership can only be developed over time. During every year, there are those few stand-outs who make tangible contributions to bettering the world around them. Through their motivation, their achievements and their attitudes, these people inspire awe just by their presence. They come from all walks of life, from the worlds of sports, politics or even Hollywood. They each use different medians to express their messages, from the big screen to their publications to popular television. Yet all of these people bring their own special meaning to the word "greatness."
Here, my picks for the top ten leaders of 2004.
10. His Royal Highness, Prince William
Prince William first captured the world's heart as the young man who solemnly followed Princess Diana's rose-laden casket. Since then he has slowly emerged from behind the protective wall of the Royal Family by following in the humanitarian efforts of his late mother. From building houses for Habitat for Humanity in third world countries to heading efforts to help the victims of flooding within his own country, Prince William has brought an image of compassion to the Royals not seen since the death of his mother. To date the young prince is the president or patron to over 360 charities, including the British Red Cross Society. Though only second in line to the English throne, "Wills" embodies a natural empathy for others and seems to genuinely connect with those who reach out to him. Through his work with the sick and the impoverished, Prince William continues to be a living example of his mother's legacy.
9. Sandra Bullock
Here, my picks for the top ten leaders of 2004.
10. His Royal Highness, Prince William
Prince William first captured the world's heart as the young man who solemnly followed Princess Diana's rose-laden casket. Since then he has slowly emerged from behind the protective wall of the Royal Family by following in the humanitarian efforts of his late mother. From building houses for Habitat for Humanity in third world countries to heading efforts to help the victims of flooding within his own country, Prince William has brought an image of compassion to the Royals not seen since the death of his mother. To date the young prince is the president or patron to over 360 charities, including the British Red Cross Society. Though only second in line to the English throne, "Wills" embodies a natural empathy for others and seems to genuinely connect with those who reach out to him. Through his work with the sick and the impoverished, Prince William continues to be a living example of his mother's legacy.
9. Sandra Bullock