From Law to Love
The Soulful Leadership of Tanja jadnanansing
Some people build a career. Tanja built a legacy.
Not because she climbed a predictable ladder. But because she followed something deeper—a calling to create a more just, human, and heart-led society.
When you speak with Tanja, you don’t just hear her words—you feel her presence. Grounded. Visionary. Fiercely devoted. Her story is a masterclass in intuitive leadership, resilience, and purpose-driven power.
A Journey That Was Never in the Plan
Born into a family where ambition was encouraged, her father (a notary) assumed she’d follow the same legal path. And she did—studying law with discipline. But her heart was always tugging in another direction.
It was during her time volunteering at a migrant legal center that everything changed. She witnessed firsthand how a lack of access to information could disempower entire communities. That moment lit a fire. “If people don’t know their rights, how can they claim them?” she asked.
And so, she pivoted. From legal theory to real-world impact. From rule-following to system-shaping.
Tanja Jadnanansing, Chairwoman Amsterdam Zuidoost.
The Power of Speaking Up
One of her early defining moments? Standing in front of the Amsterdam City Council to fight against the closure of a community legal center. She didn’t just deliver a passionate plea—she offered a vision. And in that moment, political leaders took notice. "You should be in politics," they said.
And just like that, she stepped into the arena.
Over the years, her roles have stretched across media, politics, ombudswork, education, and public service—what looks like a zigzag on paper is in truth a deeply intentional red thread:
"Every job I’ve had has been about justice—from the heart. Giving people tools and space to rise in a system that wasn’t built for them."
Leadership Rooted in Humanity
Tanja doesn’t believe in power over. She believes in power with. In holding someone’s hand just long enough… so they remember how to walk on their own.
She leads not from ego, but from empathy, clarity, and care. Her daily ritual includes meditation and prayer, asking one question:
“How can I serve today?”
Whether she’s teaching at university, showing up for her community in Amsterdam-Zuidoost, or biking to a meeting while listening to a podcast that nourishes her soul—she leads with intentionality.
She calls it “Law and Love.” A beautiful reminder that justice isn’t just about rules. It’s about stories. Context. Compassion.
Lessons from a Life of Purpose
In the interview, Tanja shares the wisdom she’s gained after decades of service:
Stop comparing yourself. You are your own blueprint.
Take your role seriously—but not yourself. (Her mantra: “Keep your head high and your heart light.”)
You don’t have to save the world alone. Start where you are. Serve who’s in front of you.
Discipline is freedom. Her life is structured not out of rigidity, but to create space for what truly matters.
And above all: reflect daily. Don’t just do—be. Ask, listen, adjust.
What She’d Tell Her Younger Self
“If I could go back, I’d say: Don’t take yourself too seriously, darling. Laugh more. Trust the timing. And whatever happens—never lose your softness.”
Because Tanja knows: softness is strength.Service is power. And leadership? It begins with love.
Inspired by this story? We are too.
At NewLeadersMovement.com , we believe the future belongs to women like Tanja—women who lead from their whole selves. Women who dare to rise without hardening. Who break ceilings by first breaking patterns. Who believe that their intuition isn’t a whisper—it’s a revolution.
Let this be your reminder: You don’t have to lead like “them.” You get to lead like you.
