Leadership tips shared as forum hailed a success

Ryan Donaldson said he had learnt a lot about leaders. Photo / File

One of Whangarei's rising leaders got a taste of "honest opinion" from some of New Zealand's top role models at the Aspiring Leaders Forum in Wellington.

Ryan Donaldson, project leader at Whangarei Youth Space, represented Whangarei among the 120 people from around New Zealand who attended, to be inspired as future leaders.

"It's been very exciting and quite daunting seeing so many politicians.

"I've learnt a lot about leaders," said Mr Donaldson.

He listened to some "very deep, honest discussions" and was really passionate about what they shared.

"We had a small group discussion with the MP for Invercargill (Sarah Dowie), the Taranaki MP (Barbara Kuriger) and Nikki Kaye (MP, Auckland Central). They were really inspiring," he said.

Sir Ralph Norris, former boss of ASB Bank, Air New Zealand and Commonwealth Bank of Australia, also spoke to the future leaders about "what it's like being a leader" Mr Donaldson said.

He hoped to hold on to what he had learnt about leadership and that it would help shape him into a future leader. "I've learnt a lot about what makes a good leader."

Mr Donaldson said he was privileged to be able to attend the forum, which ran over four days.

This year was the Aspiring Leaders Forum's 10th anniversary.

Whangarei Youth Space provides social and recreational activities, improves access to health, education and training and is a fun, safe place for youth to go in Whangarei.