The Queen of Hearts

One person I have always looked up to for their leadership and activism is Diana Spencer, or Princess Diana.

Princess Diana is sometimes referred to as "The People's Princess" for her work with numerous charities, AIDS work, and he ability to relate with "commoners" from any country, not just England.

In the 1980s, the AIDS epidemic was coursing through the world, and understanding of the disease was at an all time low.  Many people believed that you could get AIDS by touching someone or being in the same room with someone who has AIDS - in 1987, Princess Diana became the first high profile person to be photographed hugging an AIDS victim, helping put an end to the social stigma.

Princess Diana was also active in charities involving the removal and the removing of Land mines.  Princess Diana also served as a patron for many other charities as well as the Ballet and numerous hospitals.  She was also heavily involved in helping children.  Princess Diana was an atypical patron for charities - rather than giving a large sum of money to remove land mines or give medicine to children in Africa, she wanted to be there, digging out the mines and administering the shots - a first for anyone from the royal family.

Princess Diana was in a position that she could have easily taken advantage of - as the Princess and future Queen, she could have had a fairly "easy" life in terms of public service.  But rather than seclude herself in her lavage lifestyle of jewels and designer clothes, she went out and tried to help people.  Princess Diana constantly pushed the boundaries of what was considered socially acceptable.  A leader is someone doesn't let other people's opinions or the possibility of being ridiculed stop them from doing the right thing.  She knew what should be done in the world, and set out to make a change, rather than just existing and being complacent with her royal title, she tried to set an example for other people.

Princess Diana and Mother Teresa

Princess Diana's death rocked the world.  Mourners came from near and far to remember her legacy.  Princess Diana and her contributions have withstood the test of time, and she is still considered one of the most important humanitarians in modern history.  Her funeral was watched by millions of people worldwide.  At her funeral, Elton John sang multiple songs, including Goodbye England's Rose.  Her brother also gave a touching speech.

After news of Princess Diana's death spread, flowers were put everywhere in England.  This is a scene from Kensington Palace.