How is Zohran Mamdani's win a lesson in innovation?
- Pam Stoik
- Nov 5
- 2 min read
Yes, he’s young (34), yes, he’s Muslim (still a mystery to me why this is such a big deal), and yes, he beat out the establishment. Regardless of your political stripes, this New York City mayoral win is worth studying from a leadership perspective because it’s a transformational change masterclass.
How did Mamdani move people to volunteer, fundraise and vote for him as the “anti-establishment” candidate? Aside from a lot of door-knocking he:
👉 Defined a clear vision for the future. Mamdani didn't just criticize what wasn't working—he painted a specific picture of what New York could become.
⚡Transformation requires the same: a vision compelling enough that people can see themselves in it. The change is happening WITH them and not TO them...
👉 Talked to everyone, early and often. While others wrote off certain voters, Mamdani engaged with Trump supporters. Exit polls showed 61% of self-identified Republicans chose him over the actual Republican candidate.
⚡Innovation dies in echo chambers—it thrives when you seek out uncomfortable conversations.
👉 Didn’t get dragged into the sideshows. Opponents tried everything to pull him off message. Mamdani honed in on what mattered: affordability, housing, and cost of living.
⚡Forget those pesky distractions and instead stay focused on the benefits of change you’re trying to realize.
👉 Stayed focused on his stakeholders. While others courted billionaire endorsements, Mamdani remained firmly focused on everyday New Yorkers through grassroots fundraising.
⚡Know who your product serves—and don't let other agendas dilute that focus.
👉 Maintained a uniquely positive stance—even under attack. Despite being attacked from all sides, Mamdani stayed positive and forward-looking. He didn't apologize for who he was. He also took the time to explain his policies thoroughly, so his electorate had a better understanding of his vision.
⚡As a leader, it can be frustrating when the team doesn’t “get it,” but it’s possible that your “new-fangled” idea isn’t well understood. Patience, persistence and clear messaging can go a long way in winning over hearts and minds.
👉 Set smart constraints. By limiting himself to grassroots fundraising, Mamdani wasn't constrained—he was liberated to say what needed saying.
⚡Remember: the right constraints don't limit transformation; they clarify it.
👉 Listened. Learned. Engaged. Won. Mamdani mobilized tens of thousands of volunteers and showed up everywhere.
⚡ Innovation isn't a solo sport—it's built through genuine engagement with the people you're trying to serve.
Whether you're launching a startup or leading transformation, the principles are the same: Have a clear vision. Talk to everyone. Focus on real benefits. Stay true to your mission and be positively prepared when the status quo tries to throw you off your game.
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