On Thursday 23rd May, our 20 Student Leaders, Erin and Alana attended the National Young Leaders Day (NYLD) at the Dew Drop Events Centre in Manukau. We heard inspirational and motivational speeches from William Pike (Kiwi explorer and amputee), Brooke Neal (former New Zealand hockey player), Te Kahukura Boynton (entrepreneur), Nate Wilbourne (conservation and climate justice activist), Yahyah (musician) and Klaksy (artist).

There were hundreds of students from primary and intermediate schools from all over Auckland. Erin even made an appearance on stage representing Kaurilands in the teacher competition! Go Erin!

The whakatauki and theme for NYLD this year was The mokoroa (grub) may be small, but it cuts through the Kahikatea. This whakatauki reflects that small things can have a great impact. Throughout the day we were encouraged to think big and practice, practice, practice and not to give up even if we are not successful in our first or second attempt at something.

We all really enjoyed NYLD and felt inspired by the speakers' messages and stories.