Fictional leaders our government can learn a thing or two from
These days, when you want some drama and theatrics, you don’t have to watch a TV series or a movie. All you need to do is tune in to today’s news. To the dismay of countless Filipinos, the Philippine government has functioned more like a teleserye as of late, complete with dramatic outbursts, a whole lot of tears, and even a high-speed chase up the stairwell—caught on CCTV, no less.
At a time when Filipinos are yearning for stability and proper leadership, people in government seem content to serve anyone and anything but the very public who voted them into office in the first place.
Let’s be real: Government leaders seem to be losing track of what their actual jobs are and who they’re supposed to be loyal to in the first place. And where public trust is becoming more and more fragile, today’s government could learn a thing or two from fictional leaders—the kind that audiences have long gravitated to for their responsibility, integrity, and service to the people above all else.
Li Shang
Li Shang from “Mulan” is, by no means, a perfect leader. As a commanding officer in the military, he’s rigid, quick to judge, and places pressure on his men to either adapt quickly or be left behind. It cannot be denied, however, that it’s always “duty first” for Shang.
He is disciplined, leads by example, and values accountability. Most importantly, what is worth emulating from Shang is that he eventually learns to look beyond first impressions.
While Mulan was still masquerading as Fa Ping, it was clear that Shang was no fan, but as the story progresses, he acknowledges Mulan’s intelligence, bravery, and contributions. A good leader knows when to adapt and when to let go of stubborn biases and pride.
President Josiah “Jed” Bartlet
Often cited as one of the most ideal democratic leaders in fiction, President Josiah “Jed” Bartlet from “The West Wing” sees public service as a moral obligation and is known for making ethically right but politically costly decisions.
Despite being deeply moral, he is not naive. He is depicted as a highly intelligent, sharp-witted leader who often encourages debate and well-reasoned arguments within his administration. In fact, throughout the series, he surrounds himself with strong, independent advisers.
While President Bartlet can be morally rigid, prone to secrecy, and emotionally volatile under pressure, he acknowledges his flaws and is often willing to admit when he is wrong or when he has failed to live up to his own standards—a quality so many politicians lack in real life.
Kuzco
The inclusion of Emperor Kuzco from “The Emperor’s New Groove” and its spinoffs on this list might raise some eyebrows, but he’s actually a good example of a leader who goes through the kind of character development we all wish to see in our government leaders.
Initially, Kuzco is depicted as everything a leader shouldn’t be. He’s lazy, self-centered, arrogant, and very disconnected from the lives of ordinary people. It took being accidentally transformed into a llama for him to learn what it means to be a good leader.
By the end of “The Emperor’s New Groove,” the audience gets to see a version of Kuzco who has learned to be more empathic, more humble, and more people-centric. He essentially grows up and grows out of his entitlement, allowing him to be a better emperor than he once was.
Mufasa
One of Disney’s strongest portrayals of a wise and principled ruler, “The Lion King’s” Mufasa is a ruler who balances strength and compassion, earning the respect of everyone in the Pride Lands.
Mufasa values the delicate balance of life, showing that he understands that leadership involves caring for an entire system. In addition, he is depicted as a leader who also values sustainability, coexistence, and long-term stability.
Beyond being king of the Pride Lands, Mufasa is also a father, and one who leads by example. He takes the time to teach and mentor Simba—preparing the next generation by explaining values, consequences, and responsibilities.
Padmé Amidala and Leia Organa Solo
This mother-and-daughter duo serves as the moral backbone of the “Star Wars” franchise. The Queen of Naboo and later a senator, Padmé Amidala is depicted as a leader who believes it’s her responsibility to protect and represent people.
She values diplomacy over violence, leads with empathy, and combines intelligence with moral conviction. Padmé is likewise not afraid to challenge powerful institutions, understanding that democracies can erode gradually when fear and power go unchecked.
Padmé is unafraid to criticize corruption, authoritarianism, and abuses of power. When Palpatine declares the formation of the Empire, she famously says, “So this is how liberty dies—with thunderous applause.”
Proving that the apple does not fall far from the tree in a good way, Leia Organa Solo carries the same values that her mother upheld in her lifetime. Whether as a general of the Resistance in the films or as a senator herself and the chief of state in the Expanded Universe, Leia is a leader who is emotionally resilient and knows how to balance empathy with toughness.
She believes in accountable government and leads from the front, never hiding behind her status or titles. Leia is also known for her ability to remain calm and decisive under pressure. You won’t be seeing any hissy fits, emotional outbursts, and other dramatic antics from this princess.
Queen Ramonda
Speaking of leaders who remain composed during times of crises, Queen Ramonda from the “Black Panther” movies is an exceptional example of such a leader. Following the death of T’Challa, Queen Ramonda found herself leading Wakanda through political uncertainty and international pressure—all while mourning the loss of her son.
Queen Ramonda’s leadership is defined by her caution and diplomacy, earning the respect of her people due to her confidence, wisdom, and integrity. She exhibits the willingness to make painful decisions without resorting to recklessness.
For the people of Wakanda, she’s a representation of the quieter form of strength. A leader who exudes calm, stability, and resolve, Queen Ramonda is a prime example of the kind of leader we deserve in real life, especially in times of conflict, turmoil, and uncertainty.
