The WYAT Aspiring Leaders Programme, designed to foster leadership skills in high school students, will continue in 2024, thanks to the ongoing partnership between the Hawke’s Bay Community Fitness Centre Trust (HBCFCT), Wairoa Young Achievers Trust (WYAT), and Wairoa College.
This initiative has been instrumental in shaping the future leaders of Wairoa, equipping students with essential skills and a growth mindset that help them excel both personally and within their communities.
Denise Eaglesome-Karekare, Chief Executive of the Wairoa Young Achievers Trust, expressed her enthusiasm for the programme’s continuation:
“The WYAT Aspiring Leaders Programme has become a beacon of hope and opportunity for the youth of Wairoa. We are proud to continue our partnership with the Hawke’s Bay Community Fitness Centre Trust and Wairoa College in shaping the next generation of leaders.”
Wairoa College Principal Jo Vennell echoed this sentiment, highlighting the programme’s holistic impact:
“This programme goes beyond academics; it builds confidence, resilience, and a sense of responsibility in our students. We are excited to witness the growth and achievements of our students in the coming year.”
Ally Hislop, Education and Community Outreach Manager at HBCFCT, emphasised the Trust’s commitment to fostering youth development:
“At HBCFCT, we are dedicated to nurturing the potential of rangatahi in our community. We teach students the importance of wellbeing, provide positive experiences with physical activity, and foster growth in a secure and inspiring environment. Our goal is to make a meaningful impact by equipping the next generation of leaders with key life skills.”
The programme, which in 2023 focused on year 7 and 8 students, is a year-long journey that includes sessions held both at Wairoa College and the EIT Institute of Sport and Health in Hastings. Students selected for the programme demonstrate leadership potential, commitment, and a positive attitude towards physical activity.
James Baty, Chairman of the Wairoa Young Achievers Trust, expressed his excitement about the programme’s impact:
“This programme is not just about developing leadership skills; it’s about instilling a sense of purpose, resilience, and the ability to inspire and uplift others. By empowering our young people with these critical life skills, we are investing in a brighter, more vibrant future for Wairoa.”
Key elements of the programme include fostering healthy relationships, teaching fundamental movement patterns and proper nutrition, enhancing communication skills, prioritising wellbeing, celebrating individual strengths, and gaining valuable insights from high-performance athletes and inspirational leaders.
The WYAT Aspiring Leaders Programme continues to be a transformative experience for the youth of Wairoa, guiding them on a path of personal and collective growth that prepares them to become the community’s next generation of leaders.
