Elements of Smart Leadership Approaches for Smart City Development

This article explores how smart leadership contributes to developing inclusive, equitable, and sustainable smart cities amidst the backdrop of rapid urbanization and technological advancement. Smart leadership, as articulated in this article, embodies a holistic and forward-looking approach that prioritizes the well-being and inclusion of residents as a primary concern. In line with this approach, technological innovation is harmoniously embodied alongside an unwavering commitment to social justice, sustainability, and long-term planning, enabling cities that are not only technologically advanced, but also more sustainable, equitable and enriched for all residents. Central to this visionary leadership is a profound recognition of equality and representation in city governance. The principles of inclusive leadership require a leadership structure that reflects the diversity of the population, ensuring that the voices of all communities are integral to decision-making processes. Smart leaders actively advocate for the problems and aspirations of each segment of society, promoting a sense of belonging and empowerment among residents, thereby strengthening the city’s commitment to the principles of social cohesion and equal opportunities. In addition, sound leadership recognizes the key challenge of the digital divide, which can exacerbate disparities in urban landscapes. This article highlights the fundamental importance of digital access in ensuring all residents’ full participation in modern society, economics, and governance. Smart leaders introduce policies and initiatives to bridge the digital divide and ensure equal access to digital tools and information for every resident, regardless of socioeconomic background. This proactive approach promotes digital inclusion and lays the foundation for seamless smart technology integration in the city, ultimately improving its residents’ overall quality of life. Through a systematic analysis of articles, this inquiry observes the metamorphosis of cities into centers of advanced technological implementation and economic dynamism. The article proposes the author’s Smart City Leadership Activity Model, which contains several key principles of smart leadership in the context of equitable, sensible, and strategic smart city growth, development, and innovation.