Overview

Over four transformative days, 18-22 May 2025, young Muslim-Kiwi leaders from across New Zealand gathered to embark on a unique Future Leaders Programme.

Out of 106 applicants, 23 young Muslim-Kiwi leaders selected the Programme with a shared goal: to serve their communities, and all of Aotearoa New Zealand, with confidence, compassion, and purpose.

This Programme, led by respected public and business sector leader Ziena Jalil, offered young leaders something rare: direct access to and engagement with senior government officials, influential media figures, and leaders in the not-for-profit sector.

Each day deepened the group’s understanding of their place in New Zealand society, not just as young Muslims but as young Kiwis ready to lead.

The Programme was designed into three key modules:

• Module 1: Identity and Civic Leadership
• Module 2: Community Engagement and Leadership
• Module 3: Media and Public Voice

More than just a leadership course, it created a safe space for emerging leaders to connect with those shaping Aotearoa today. The content went beyond information-sharing; participants were challenged, inspired, and supported to grow into the next generation of changemakers in a complex and diverse world.

At its core, the Programme answered a big question:
How do we make sure everyone, no matter their ethnicity, faith or background, do their bit to better the future of our country?

A grounded beginning: Building trust and community first

To kick off the Programme, participants came together for a special networking evening, a chance to connect, share stories, and begin building the trust and relationships that would become the foundation of their journey.

What started as introductions quickly grew into a sense of whanaungatanga (sense of family connection) that carried through the week and will continue well beyond it.

“This isn’t just about growing as individuals,” said facilitator Ziena Jalil. “It’s about building strength together and using that strength to serve others.”

Day 1: Identity and civil leadership

On the first day, the group heard powerful insights from leaders who had walked the path before them.

Our Chief Executive, Mervin Singham, and FIANZ’s Abdur Razzaq, a long-time advocate for New Zealand’s Muslim community, opened the Programme and spoke about what leadership really means. It's not about having a title but about stepping up, especially when it’s hard.

Mervin shared his reflections from over three decades of leadership in New Zealand’s public service. He encouraged participants to think long-term and lead with integrity.

“Set a clear vision, not just for yourself, but for your community and your future,” he told the group. “And remember, trust takes time. Build it brick by brick.”

Mervin also spoke of the importance of staying grounded in who you are: “Authenticity matters. Be yourself, always. And when challenges come, resilience isn’t optional. Learn to adapt, grow, and keep going.”

Abdur Razzaq shared practical insights on navigating leadership in real-world systems.

“Don’t limit yourself; go beyond your scope and see what’s possible,” he urged. “And build real connections. Your network is your strength.”

He also emphasised the importance of understanding institutional systems in order to influence them effectively: “Learn the protocols. Understand how the system works so you can work with it and change it. And most importantly, ask questions. Take risks. That’s how leaders grow.”

Former Christchurch Mayor Lianne Dalziel offered a deeply personal perspective. She spoke of her experiences in government, and as a community leader during the 2019 mosque attacks. Her message was that leadership is most tested in the aftermath of tragedy. But it’s also where it’s most needed.

That theme of resilience continued with Rebecca Kitteridge, Deputy Public Service Commissioner and former Director-General of the NZ Security Intelligence Service (NZSIS). Reflecting on her own role during the Christchurch attacks, she discussed how leadership demands courage, clarity, and compassion, especially under extreme pressure.

Tackling tough issues with open minds

In one standout session, Nick Marks from NZSIS led a conversation on national security, civil rights, and the right to protest. It sparked honest, thoughtful discussion.

Nick highlighted that these aren’t easy topics, but real leaders know how to face hard issues respectfully and push for change.

Understanding community leadership: Real people, real challenges, real change

The first major session on Community Leadership brought together two community leaders: Ikhlaq Kashkari, President of the New Zealand Muslim Association, and Fezeela Raza, Director of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Wellbeing at the Reserve Bank of New Zealand. Drawing on their personal and professional experiences, they brought alive what it means to lead within diverse and evolving communities.

The session’s interactive format allowed participants to reflect on their own communities and imagine how to initiate meaningful change.

Day 2: Community engagement and leadership – From insight to impact

From real-world case studies to hands-on group discussions, participants explored how to identify community needs, map resources, and advocate for change with empathy and evidence.

A session led by Deb Potter, Principal Analyst at our Ministry, brought in robust data from the latest Ethnic Evidence report and faith-based census data, urging leaders to make their case with both storytelling and statistics.

The afternoon’s powerful workshop on conflict resolution, led by Christina Marie Tay, gave participants the tools to navigate interpersonal and organisational tension. With her background in restorative justice and mediation, Christina offered practical strategies rooted in empathy and early intervention.

Day 3: Media and public voice – Speaking up, leading out

Day 3 focused on equipping participants with the tools to engage confidently with media and the public, a key part of modern leadership.

The day opened with an inspiring session led by renowned journalist and broadcaster John Campbell. Reflecting on his career and experiences, he spoke candidly about the impact of the March 15 terrorist attacks, describing it as a deeply eye-opening moment that broadened his understanding of New Zealand’s Muslim community. He shared his admiration for the community’s powerful response; one that transformed hate into unity, love, and compassion.

Dr Donald Matheson of the University of Canterbury led a dynamic workshop on crafting messages, managing social media campaigns, and using the arts to advocate for change. He stressed the power of storytelling beyond traditional media.

Later, Dr Melissa Derby, New Zealand’s Race Relations Commissioner, shared how her role supports human rights and calls out discrimination. Her message was clear: courageous conversations are essential to building an inclusive society.

The day concluded with Police Commissioner Richard Chambers offering insights into New Zealand's unique approach to community policing, as well as the balance between national security and civil liberties.  Participants were encouraged to question systems with respect and to engage as informed citizens.

Inspiring talks: Evening fireside chats

Evenings offered time for reflection and spiritual connection. In one session, Niyaaz Sayed spoke about the ethics of leadership, reminding the group that if they want to lead others well, they first have to lead themselves with honesty and care.

The Programme also included an evening kōrero with Hon. Mark Mitchell, Minister for Ethnic Communities. He shared stories from his time living in Muslim countries, and the admiration he holds for the culture, generosity, and sincerity of the Muslim community.

“Be yourself,” he told the group. “Authenticity is a key leadership trait.” When asked what advice he’d give his younger self, the Minister said: “Don’t rush. Live in the moment. And that’s what I encourage you to do as well.”

Throughout the Programme, participants worked in small groups on real community projects. They took what they learned and applied it to real-life challenges, from civic engagement to youth wellbeing.

On the final day, participants presented their projects to Minister Mitchell, Mervin Singham, and Atef Abdu Razzaq from FIANZ. The panel was impressed by the creativity, practicality, and passion the young leaders brought to their ideas.

Voices from the cohort: Takeaways and insights

At the end of the four-day Programme, participants were asked to reflect on what they were taking away from the experience. While each person had a unique journey, some powerful themes stood out: confidence, identity, action, and the courage to lead with purpose. Here’s what some of them shared:

“Confidence in being Māori Muslim and learning about community and government engagement.”

“Identification and action – I love to serve but never really had the desire to lead. I’ve always loved my community, but now I understand the importance of taking initiative.”

“Be more confident when leading—not holding back because of imposter syndrome.”

“Working more within the system and bringing our issues to light in a way that is strategic.”

These reflections show just how deeply the Programme resonated with the participants.

View the Programme’s album on our Facebook.

Read the full agenda of the Programme to learn more about the topics and speakers or PDF.