On April 4^th the Instep Young Leaders’ Forum had its first business breakfast for 2024. Students ventured out into the wee hours of the morning to learn about diverse leadership styles from the Careers Team, Shane Gillun and Ray Trinidad of the New Zealand Defence Force. Through engaging and entertaining activities, they discovered the importance of adaptability and collaboration.

Shane and Ray took the group through a series of interactive ice breakers and group exercises, including challenges that tied teams in human knots. Students were given the opportunity to actively work together and problem-solve. Through these experiences, they not only identified their own leadership style, but gained a deeper understanding of the efficacy of flexibility and clear communication in addressing the tasks at hand.

One notable activity involved participants navigating a critically complex scenario where they had to work as a team to build a bridge, to cross a river, and deliver food to starving villagers. Each group chose a leader and then set about to solve the problem. A second assignment saw the teams become a bomb squad. They needed to diffuse and remove a threat with some difficult parameters and only a few tools at their disposal. The teams experienced firsthand the intricacies of collective problem-solving and communication under pressure.

These immersive activities underscored the multifaceted nature of leadership and decision-making, showcasing the efficacy of diverse styles in varying contexts.

Ultimately, the breakfast proved to be a catalyst for an insightful learning experience, punctuated by moments of laughter and fun. Attendees departed with newfound perspectives on leadership and appreciation for the invaluable lessons imparted by the NZDF – setting a promising tone for the year ahead.

Sponsors: TECT, Bay Trust, Lion Foundation, Bay of Plenty Education Trust

Partners: Tauranga City Council, CoachioGroup, Bay of Plenty Regional Council, Western Bay of Plenty District Council, The University of Waikato, Toi Ohomai,

Secondary 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