Last night the Instep Young Leaders came together for their finale, marking the end of a year filled with learning, friendship and personal growth. Each student received their certificate and a copy of The Alchemist before gathering to hear from guest speaker Ray Everest from Future Focus, 2024 Instep Young Leader Amber Peck, and current leaders Bella Ngawhika and Irish Cabalfin.

Ray Everest’s message to the group was powerful and real. He spoke about facing fear, finding purpose and building the habits that shape a meaningful life. “Write down your fear,” he said. “Put it somewhere you can see it. Then ask yourself how you’re going to get past it and who can help you.” He reminded everyone that the life they want starts with the effort they’re willing to make. “Work harder on yourself than you do on your job or your career,” he said. “If you want an above average life, you must become an above average person.”

He spoke about discipline, consistency and connection, encouraging the students to look after their wellbeing, surround themselves with good people and protect what they feed their minds with. “You can’t complain about a life you haven’t done the work for,” he said. “What you put in your ears, your eyes, your mind, guard it carefully.” His closing words captured the energy of the evening. “You are walking into the greatest time in human history. Don’t sit in the stands and watch. Be a competitor.”

Amber Peck followed with a heartfelt talk about her first year at university. She spoke honestly about the challenges of balancing study, work and wellbeing and about learning to trust herself through uncertainty. “Know your why,” she said. “And don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it.” She also encouraged the group to stay connected with friends and family and to give themselves permission to do things differently. “I chose to stay at home this year and it gave me time to figure out what I really want to do. It’s been the best decision I could have made.”

Two of this year’s young leaders, Bella Ngawhika and Irish Cabalfin, also shared their reflections. Bella spoke about the breakfast session with explorer and leadership coach Jamie Fitzgerald, saying it was a turning point that made her rethink how she shows up as a leader. She also reflected on her involvement with yia! and how the experience helped her connect with other students and step outside her comfort zone. Irish spoke with pride about what makes Instep special. “A year ago I would have never stepped up here and spoke publicly, the friends I have made here are so valuable and ones I will have forever.”

The evening ended with words from Priority One’s General Manager of Communications and Marketing, Kathryn Scholes, who congratulated the group on their achievements and wished them well for what comes next. The year 13s shared their plans for the future. Some are saving to travel, one is heading to London to perform with the Royal Shakespeare Company, and others are off to Victoria University and AUT to study engineering, business and nursing.

The Instep Young Leaders finale wasn’t just a celebration of the year that’s been. It was a reminder of why this programme matters so much for our region. Instep connects education, industry and community in a way that builds confidence, purpose and opportunity. It helps young people see a future here in the Bay of Plenty and gives them the skills and relationships to make it happen.

The ripple effect of this programme is already being felt. These students take what they’ve learned back into their schools, families and communities. They show others what leadership looks like in action. As Ray Everest said, “Your fears are a roadmap.” Facing those fears, supporting each other and choosing to step forward is how they’ll shape the future of both their own lives and our region.

The night closed with laughter, gratitude and a sense of something new beginning. The Instep Young Leaders are not just finishing a programme. They are stepping into a future they’re helping to create, with each choice, each connection and each act of courage they take.

We wish to give a shout out to the sponsors and partners who generously support the Instep Programme. TECT, Bay Trust, The Lion Foundation, Bay of Plenty Education Trust, Tauranga City Council, Bay of Plenty Regional Council, Western Bay of Plenty District Council, University of Waikato, Toi-Ohomai

Partner Schools ACG Tauranga, Aquinas College, Ōtūmoetai College, Bethlehem College, Katikati College,
Mount Maunganui College, Tauranga Boys’ College, Tauranga Girls’ College, Te Wharekura o Mauao,
Pāpāmoa College, Te Puke High School