By Brian KLose
Opinion Editor
This issue’s Hero of the Week honors Justin Trudeau, prime minister of Canada and political heartthrob. After weeks of traveling, Trudeau has been making headlines and growing his international fanbase with his charm, good looks, and vocal support for progressive political values.
Trudeau recently met with President Donald Trump to discuss trade, international relations, and immigration. The two leaders held a press conference, and Trudeau chose to speak highly of his native Canada instead of bashing Trump’s controversial administration.
“The last thing Canadians expect is for me to come down and lecture another country on how they choose to govern themselves,” Trudeau said. “My role…is to govern in such a way that reflects Canadians’ approach and be a positive example in the world.”
Despite the amicable press conference, Trudeau made headlines after the publication of an image of the prime minister ignoring President Trump’s signature handshake. The image sent a clear message on Trudeau’s feelings toward the administration, one that promotes unity and acceptance over division and exclusion.
On a lighter note, Trudeau’s actions and images have had a relatively active social media presence.
Nicknamed PM Steal Yo Girl, numerous images show the 45-year-old prime minister charming politicians and celebrities, including Ivanka Trump, Queen Elizabeth II, Barack Obama, German prime minister Angela Merkel, and even Trump.
The young politician represents a fresh type of leader who focuses on optimism, progress, and a more inclusive form of globalization. Trudeau, following his meeting with President Trump, has been visiting EU countries in support of the Comprehensive European Trade Agreement, known more commonly as CETA, a trade policy thats hopes to improve business relations between Canada and the European Union. While the agreement is considered controversial in EU nations, Trudeau’s active participation in carrying out the CETA sets a standard for leaders who wish to lead by example and action.
Trudeau’s leadership and progressivism gives hope future generations yearning for a chance to lead and make an impact.