Section 1.1: Engaging the Audience

Science communicators play a pivotal role in translating complex scientific concepts into accessible language for diverse audiences. During the COVID-19 pandemic, many global leaders attempted to convey the necessity of a collective effort to “flatten the curve.” However, effective communication requires more than just presenting graphs and statistics.

Jacinda did not pretend to be an expert nor did she expect the public to be one. She held daily live press briefings, patiently responding to numerous questions. On one memorable evening, she even took to Facebook Live from her living room, wearing a sweatshirt, to engage directly with the public in a relatable manner. She even organized a press conference aimed specifically at children, partnering with science communicator Dr. Michelle Dickinson, who specializes in communicating science to younger audiences.

Subsection 1.1.1: Clarity in Messaging

To illustrate the need for self-isolation to curb the virus's spread, Jacinda employed a “bubble” analogy inspired by Dr. Tristram Ingham, a Senior Research Fellow at the University of Otago. This analogy effectively guided individuals in determining their contacts during the two-week quarantine and clarified how the virus spreads.

Researchers Jacqueline and Milton Mayfield propose a model for effective communication that includes three components: direction-giving, meaning-making, and empathy to inspire individuals to “give their best.” While many leaders focus on providing direction, they often overlook the importance of meaning-making and empathy.

Jacinda successfully guided public understanding of COVID-19 by consistently articulating the need to “Go hard, go early” while fostering a sense of collective responsibility with phrases like “Be kind, Stay home.”

Section 1.2: The Role of Empathy

Jacinda is particularly renowned for her empathetic leadership. Her compassionate responses, such as wearing a hijab while comforting the Muslim community after the tragic Christchurch terrorist attack, resonated deeply and demonstrated national unity in mourning. One poignant image of her was even projected onto the Burj Khalifa in Dubai.

When discussing the transmission of the coronavirus, Jacinda's empathy shone through. As playgrounds closed, she shared her own disappointment about not being able to take her daughter to the park, illustrating the necessity of closures due to the virus's longevity on surfaces.

Many science communicators have gained significant recognition in New Zealand as the nation combats COVID-19. Their efforts, supported by a leader who leads by example, have brought the country closer to eliminating the virus.

Rebecca LeBard is a scientist and educator with a BSc (Hons), PhD, and MEd in higher education. She writes about science, education, and communication on Medium and serves as the editor of the SCICOMM publication. You can follow her on Twitter for more insights.