In a bright room looking out over Wellington Harbour, a group of young Muslim-Kiwi leaders gathered for the pilot Future Leaders Programme. The Programme was jointly organised by our Ministry and the Federation of Islamic Associations of New Zealand (FIANZ). It took place from 18 to 22 May 2025.
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 four-day 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.
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.”
Leadership in action: Insights from trailblazers
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 the 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.”
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.”
Learning by doing
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 Khan 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.
