http://www.celf.org.nz/blog/ The latest Blog feeds from www.celf.org.nz en-us Wed, 15 Apr 2026 05:29:27 +1200 Rocketspark http://www.celf.org.nz/blog/post/162932/strengthening-communities/ In 2025, Josephine Singh completed our Waikato Leadership Programme, marking a significant step in her leadership journey and professional growth.Alongside the programme, she continues her work at Waikato Women's Refuge - Te Whakaruruhau, supporting finance, human resources, administration, and stepping into the different spaces needed to strengthen outcomes for whānau.... Tue, 31 Mar 2026 12:11:59 +1300 http://www.celf.org.nz/blog/#post162932 http://www.celf.org.nz/blog/post/157520/growing-into-purpose-driven-leadership/ When Adam Findlay joined CELF’s Leadership Waikato Programme, he had recently been appointed Construction Manager at Foster Group Ltd, navigating the demands of leadership while raising a young family. He was eager to grow and make his mark in the role.“CELF came at a perfect time,” Adam reflects. “It gave me clarity, confidence, and a network of peers in similar positions.” The programme provided him with practical tools, space to reflect, and insights that would shape the next stage ... Fri, 05 Dec 2025 16:39:25 +1300 http://www.celf.org.nz/blog/#post157520 http://www.celf.org.nz/blog/post/156803/leadership-in-action/ How CELF Sparked ChangeIndustrial Site Services (ISS) began in 1991 when Scott and Shani Forsyth set out to provide safe, reliable access solutions for New Zealand’s heavy industry. Now led by their son Bruce and his wife Nicky, the company has grown into a trusted name in scaffolding, rigging, rope access, and engineering for major industrial projects nationwide. At its heart, ISS is a family story, built on resilience, leadership, and care. Bruce has carried forward the strong foundatio... Wed, 26 Nov 2025 16:12:22 +1300 http://www.celf.org.nz/blog/#post156803 http://www.celf.org.nz/blog/post/156518/celebrating-leadership-that-inspires/ On Friday 14 November we celebrated the spirit of leadership that runs through the Community and Enterprise Leadership Foundation (CELF) alumni community, by recognising an Alumni Leader of the Year. This award shines a light on a leader who embodies CELF’s mission: “growing responsible leaders for a connected and thriving Waikato.” It’s about integrity, courage, and compassion - qualities that make a genuine difference.Dr Peter Sun, announced this year’s recipient, Andrea McBeth,... Tue, 25 Nov 2025 09:58:50 +1300 http://www.celf.org.nz/blog/#post156518 http://www.celf.org.nz/blog/post/156373/celebrating-the-celf-class-of-2025/ Last Friday, the Gallagher Academy of Performing Arts was alive with energy as we celebrated the graduation of CELF’s Class of 2025. This milestone marks ten years of the Leadership Programme, and with it, a community of 193 alumni making waves across the Waikato.... Thu, 20 Nov 2025 14:50:58 +1300 http://www.celf.org.nz/blog/#post156373 http://www.celf.org.nz/blog/post/155628/new-trustees-for-celf/ We’re pleased to introduce you to  two of our newest members of CELF's Trust Board – Carmen Jacobsen and David Wiles. Both bring deep expertise, fresh energy, and a shared passion for growing leadership in the Waikato.... Wed, 05 Nov 2025 13:21:22 +1300 http://www.celf.org.nz/blog/#post155628 http://www.celf.org.nz/blog/post/155615/leadership-for-good/ Seventeen years ago, Gary and Trina White began Waikato Construction Management Limited (WCML) as a modest shed-building venture. Today, WCML stands as a respected provider of design and build services across the Waikato, a testament to unwavering dedication, robust systems, and, above all, a team united by shared values and a positive attitude. For Gary, the journey has always been about more than business growth. It’s been about learning, evolving, and finding ways to give back. This co... Wed, 05 Nov 2025 12:40:47 +1300 http://www.celf.org.nz/blog/#post155615 http://www.celf.org.nz/blog/post/155592/leaning-into-authenticity/ When Heidi Gleeson joined CELF's Leadership Programme in 2023, she was stepping into uncharted territory. Two years into her role at True Colours Children's Health Trust, she was preparing to succeed the founder as CEO—a daunting but exciting responsibility. While her passion for True Colours was undeniable, she needed the confidence to lead boldly and authentically.CELF arrived at the perfect moment. Through robust discussions, hands-on learning with business leaders, and deep self-reflection... Tue, 04 Nov 2025 15:57:58 +1300 http://www.celf.org.nz/blog/#post155592 http://www.celf.org.nz/blog/post/154645/a-decade-of-leadership-impact/ The Community and Enterprise Leadership Foundation (CELF) is celebrating ten years of strengthening leadership across Waikato. Our celebration event honoured the vision and commitment of founders, supporters and programme participants who have built bridges between sectors and created lasting, positive change in our region.... Wed, 22 Oct 2025 11:58:50 +1300 http://www.celf.org.nz/blog/#post154645 http://www.celf.org.nz/blog/post/153309/new-co-chairs-for-celf/ Community and Enterprise Leadership Foundation Welcomes New Co-ChairsThe Community and Enterprise Leadership Foundation (CELF) is proud to announce John Adams and Megan Campbell as its new Co-Chairs, signalling the next phase of CELF’s work to strengthen courageous, connected leadership across Waikato and beyond.Together, John and Megan bring a new blend of expertise and perspective to CELF’s governance. John’s extensive commercial and financial experience, coupled with his commitment to g... Tue, 30 Sep 2025 14:39:07 +1300 http://www.celf.org.nz/blog/#post153309