Manila hui reinforces the value of people-to-people connections
Leadership Network member Rakuto Kurano describes taking part in the network's Manila, which saw 14 members travel to the Philippines to deepen their understanding of the Southeast Asian nation, its culture and history, and to build new connections. The hui was held to mark the 60th anniversary of diplomatic ties between New Zealand and the Philippines and included visits to social enterprises, media organisations and cultural sites.
Rakuto: "The Manila Hui reinforced my belief that the strongest international relationships are built through the people we meet and the conversations we have."
Growing up in Japan before moving to New Zealand, I have always felt a strong connection to the Asia-Pacific region. Over the years, I have had the opportunity to experience several countries across Asia, including living in Indonesia for two years and performing as a musician in Vietnam on numerous occasions.
Despite these experiences, I had never visited the Philippines, so when the opportunity arose to join the Manila Hui, I saw it as a chance to deepen my understanding of one of New Zealand's important regional partners.
From the very first day of the Hui, it was clear that the programme was about far more than visiting another country. It was an opportunity to engage directly with Filipino leaders, organisations, and communities, gaining insights that simply cannot be learned through reading or hearing stories from others.
Hearing firsthand about the Philippines' history, aspirations, and contemporary challenges provided a richer understanding of the country and its relationship with New Zealand.
Rakuto: "Each interaction offered a different lens through which to understand the Philippines' opportunities, challenges, history, and aspirations."
One of the aspects I appreciated most was the diversity of the programme.
Throughout the week, we met with leaders from across a wide range of sectors, including agribusiness, philanthropy, media, international development, and policy organisations, as well as members of an Indigenous Aeta community.
Each interaction offered a different lens through which to understand the Philippines' opportunities, challenges, history, and aspirations.
Experiencing such a broad range of perspectives deepened my appreciation of the country's complexity and highlighted how collaboration across sectors is essential to addressing many of the issues facing the region.
The group meeting with Cherrie Atilano, founder and chair of AGREA and the AGREA Foundation, organisations that work alongside farmers to build more sustainable food systems
Equally valuable were the conversations I had with members of our delegation.
The Manila Hui brought together Leadership Network members from a diverse range of professions and backgrounds, each bringing unique experiences and insights into leadership and engagement with Asia.
Some of the most meaningful learning happened outside the formal programme – over meals, during bus rides, and while exploring Manila together.
Those conversations broadened my perspective and encouraged me to view familiar issues through new lenses.
I was particularly struck by the Philippines' unique cultural identity, with its distinctive blend of Asian traditions and Western influences.
To me, it combined many of the qualities I appreciate in both cultures – the warmth and sense of community often associated with Asia, alongside the openness and familiarity that made it easy to connect with people.
Rakuto: "I returned with new friendships, fresh perspectives, and a renewed appreciation for strengthening connections between New Zealand and Asia."
That combination gave the country a character unlike anywhere else I have experienced and made my time there especially memorable.
I returned home with a much deeper appreciation for the Philippines, not only for its rich culture and history but also for the warmth, generosity, and resilience of its people.
More importantly, I returned with new friendships, fresh perspectives, and a renewed appreciation for strengthening connections between New Zealand and Asia.
The Manila Hui reinforced my belief that the strongest international relationships are built through the people we meet and the conversations we have.
The experience did not end when I landed back in New Zealand. During our time in Manila, I had the opportunity to give a guest lecture at the Centro Escolar University Conservatory of Music and spend time with local music students, sharing ideas and connecting through our common passion for music.
The connections I formed during the Hui inspired me to return to the Philippines later this month to build on the relationships that began there. They have reminded me that conversations and connections formed during experiences like the Manila Hui can become the foundation for meaningful relationships.
The Asia New Zealand Foundation Leadership Network equips the next generation of Kiwi leaders to thrive in Asia. We provide members with the connections, knowledge and confidence to lead New Zealand’s future relationship with the region.
Leadership Network offshore hui provide opportunities for members to have in-country experiences, expose them to an Asian destination and culture, provide leadership opportunities and build connections both within the network and with relevant contacts offshore.
