Over three and a half thousand school students from around New Zealand including many Pacific Island students attended the 2002 National Young Leaders' Days.

Initiated in Australia in 1997 to develop student leadership in schools and build a better future for young people, this is the second year this event has been held in New Zealand.

Last year the event was only open to secondary school students but was opened up to the younger students because of its popularity and success.

"We had so many primary and intermediate teachers come and ask us to include them and we've had more response from these groups than our secondary schools" says Annette Johnson, Director of Young Leaders' Days.

The idea behind the motivational days are for Principals to nominate top student leaders such as Captains, Vice-Captains, Prefects, Student Council Reps, Board of Trustees Reps, House Captains, Cultural leaders and Sporting Captains to attend the event.

The objectives of the day were to inspire students to make a positive contribution to their school. Motivate them to be great leaders in their area of influence and to empower students with the practical skills of managing commitments, as well as exposing them to a diverse range of leaders in society and their views of leadership.

"At the end of the day, our challenge to everyone that comes is to be a great leader, not necessarily a famous leader but just a great leader" says Annette.

Events were held in Christchurch, Wellington and Auckland and a group of high profile personalities were selected to speak and interact with the students. The aim, to challenge students to reach not only their own personal goals but also the goals of those they are leading.

Well-known New Zealand Children's author, Joy Cowley spoke to primary and intermediate students in Auckland encouraging them to do the best they can in whatever they do and to give something back every day.

Mt Roskill Policeman, Nick Tuitasi

entertained the crowd with humorous stories of police work while encouraging the young people to finish what they start and that this country is ready for good leaders so they must prepare themselves to take up the challenge.

Some of the speakers included Leader of the Opposition, Bill English and his wife Mary English, TV personalities like Russell Harrison from Lotto, Jason Gunn from Young Entertainers as well as various business, sports and community leaders.

The whole programme was supported by various organisations and even had the seal of approval from the Prime Minister.

"It is important that we foster young leaders. The National Young Leaders' Days provide an opportunity for young people to discuss important issues and develop skills, which will stand them in good stead when they return to their schools and communities. By assisting the next generation to fulfil their potential, we help to secure not only their future but also the future of our country."

"The event also serves to highlight the talent of our young people and the contribution they make to our society. Young people provide much of the drive, energy and innovation, which makes our country a richer place."

Teachers also supported the concept like Vasa Auva'a - Key from Wesley Primary School in Auckland.

"I think it's so important for young people to be exposed to other people from around the country who are leaders and to know that leadership can be attained."

This year's event was also a success with the young people.

"I learnt never to give and don't fail" said Harry Tafea from Wesley Primary.

Jessica 'Ofa also of Wesley Primary loved the whole experience.

"When I go back to school, I will tell them all about it and then just make an example for the little children at our school." She said, "I learnt how to be a good leader, to be yourself and watch out for others and do good things in life."

The Young Leaders' Days are finished for this year but will be back again in 2003.
 

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