25th-28th of June 2026

Tēnā koutou katoa

The Aspiring Leaders’ Forum on Faith, Values and Servant Leadership is an annual event that brings together a diverse group of committed and courageous young leaders from across Aotearoa New Zealand.  Guided by facilitators and esteemed national leaders, selected young people will discuss leadership from a narrative point of view, throughout a carefully articulated and varied four-day programme.

Our hope is that Aspiring Leaders’ Forum will build a bridge from one generation to the next, inspiring and elevating our young people’s expectations of leadership.

  • “Aspiring Leaders’ Forum gave me an inspiration and emboldening to make something of myself.”

    Eddie Tuiavii // Delegate

  • “The Forum creates a unique opportunity for politicians to explain and discuss their own philosophies.  It is a unique and refreshing event in the life of Parliament.”

    Hon Bill English
    Hon Bill English // Previous Prime Minister

  • "I never found a space where faith and values were discussed openly and with such passion. Being in this space, made me appreciate the differences between one another whilst celebrating our similarities."

    Rana Arif // Delegate

  • One of my highlights was hearing Rt Hon Jim Bolger speak and being inspired by his experiences as a former Prime Minister. After his talk, I felt empowered, realising that I am already equipped to be a catalyst for change. I can have an impact and bring restoration.

    Kandarp Dalal // Delegate

  • I think there is so much value in gathering a diverse group of young people from a wide range of different walks of life into a room and getting them to sit down and question. Question their faith and values, what drives them, what they’re passionate about and why. And there is no more perfect time for this; the age and stage in life that the vast majority of us are at is such a pinnacle time to ponder on these questions as we navigate who we are and what/who we want to be and do with our lives.

    Emily Ridd testimonial
    Emily Ridd testimonial // Delegate

  • This forum has taught me the importance of knowing and standing firm in my identity, which is formed by my faith and values. Only once I know who I truly am will I be able to lead others around me authentically and genuinely. Leadership isn’t always easy, and there may be times when challenges are thrown at me; however, it is heartening to know that I also have a family of other leaders in different parts of New Zealand who are here supporting me.

    Francesca Long Testimonial
    Francesca Long Testimonial // Delegate

  • "The Aspiring Leaders Forum was not just an event—it was a catalyst. It deepened my resolve to advocate for meaningful change and to lead with purpose. As I return to my work with the Waimakariri Youth Council, I carry with me the lessons, the inspiration, and the responsibility to make a difference."

    Zach Lappin Co-Chair, Waimakariri Youth Council & Deputy Chair, Waimakariri Access Group.

  • The biggest takeaway was the word ‘who-ness’. Dame Jenny Shipley said, developing your ‘who-ness’ is the ultimate investment—you can own your space better if you know who you are.

    Sarah Auld fourth-year law and arts student majoring in Political Science and Philosophy