Leadership Week schools outreach project
From 4 – 8 July 2011, members of the Asia:NZ Young Leaders Network visited high schools in the Auckland and Wellington region to encourage interest in Asia. They shared their leadership stories to help students learn more about pathways to further study and employment in Asia beyond their secondary schooling.
The events were part of New Zealand Leadership Week (1 – 8 July), an annual event organised by the Sir Peter Blake Trust, which highlights the relevance and value that great leadership provide for New Zealand. It also showcases the work being done to develop New Zealand’s leadership capability.
Andrew Tringham was one of the young leaders participating, addressing the senior assembly at Wellington College on 7 July. "As a former student, I was looking forward to returning and sharing my experiences of the seven years since leaving. Throughout this time I have been fortunate to have a number of sponsored trips to Asia, which helped to form my passion for the region and my goal of living and working there – the fastest growing and most exciting region in the world.”
Young leader Wilson Chau says the project arose at the Young Leaders Forum 2010. “The Auckland young leaders were encouraged to pursue a long-term community outreach project. Building on my previous experience as a speaker at youth events and schools, I was able to provide the momentum for the schools outreach project. What really got the project off the ground was when Asia:NZ suggested that it be launched during New Zealand Leadership Week.”
“I spearheaded and coordinated the schools outreach project. My responsibilities included drafting working papers to discuss the overall concept of an outreach; designing a powerpoint slideshow that could used by young leaders when they visit schools; and meeting with young leaders for brainstorming sessions.”
Wilson has been in the network for nearly three years. He is currently completing Honours in Law and Political Studies at the University of Auckland, as well as tutoring for the Political Studies Department. Wilson has taught English in northeast China and his Australian National University summer research project was on Chinese military diplomacy.
“The project we are undertaking is intended to raise Asia awareness in schools; encourage New Zealand youth to consider Asia as part of their future (be it for study, travelling, or work); and provide an opportunity for young leaders to share their Asia experiences with the public. We intend to deliver the outreach to more schools in the future. It will hopefully develop into a valuable resource that schools can request from the Young Leaders Network.”
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