Self regard and self belief was a recurring theme with many participants leaving the course with a newly found confidence and belief in their abilities.  For Executive Assistant Nellie-Ann Rerekura, the leadership course taught her to turn down the voice of not being able to do things and turn up the volume that she deserves it.  Her vision is to become a strong Maaori leader and decision maker.

Many of the graduates will pass on their skills and knowledge to others, for example Kevin Kuresa, Community Living Specialist at Framework Trust says he will use his Samoan heritage and the leadership skills to reach other Samoan people in the community. 

For Martha Kim, Registered Nurse at Tiaho Mai, her aim is to work with Asian/Korean communities and reduce the stigma to mental health.  Part of that is breaking down some of the cultural barriers which can prevent people from getting the care they need. 

For Kara Okesene-Gafa, Pacific Obstetrician Gynaecologist at Middlemore it’s about being better equipped to bring about changes that will make a difference in the health of women in the local community. 

"I’d like to be part of developing strong, healthy women in the hope they will be strengthened in their health physically, mentally emotionally and spiritually," says Kara.

Rochelle Avatea, who has Rarotongan heritage, largely credits the course with her promotion from an RN in Ward 9 to Charge Nurse Manager, Ward 8.

“The course changed my way of thinking. I learned that there’s nothing wrong with confidence. I’m learning to find my voice and speak up.  My promotion is definitely a reflection on the course and I’d absolutely recommend it others who get the opportunity.”

Course participants were Maaori, Asian and Pacific, and the differences in cultural expectations were highlighted when it comes to leadership.  Lack of eye contact, no self-praise or self-promotion, putting others first are all attributes to be encouraged in some cultures. Not speaking up can mean fear of saying something wrong and causing offence, being quiet is showing respect, rather than not listening.

We need to recognise that potential leaders are all through our organisations, whether it’s in health, manufacturing, in our schools and universities, and throughout society.  Great leaders with vision will make the difference for all of us

Let’s recognise the leaders in our midst, encourage them and get them motivated so they can point the way for us all.