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OUR IMPACT & RESEARCH

Leadership that creates 
a lasting ripple.

Two significant studies help us understand what changes when leaders learn across sectors, strengthen their connections and stay engaged with the CELF community.


EVIDENCE BUILT OVER TIME

2

complementary studies exploring how CELF develops leaders and contributes to wellbeing

We are curious about what changes and committed to measuring it.

Our foundational research explored how responsible leadership capital develops. The 2025 Huber Social report builds on that work, measuring the programme’s immediate and longer-term contribution to leaders, their networks and the wider community.

EXPLORE THE RESEARCH

Two studies. One evolving picture of impact.


2025  -   SOCIAL IMPACT

Social Impact Report

Prepared by Huber Social, this study measures short- and long-term outcomes for programme graduates and alumni through a wellbeing lens. It also includes perspectives from whānau, family members and colleagues.

Supported by WEL Energy Trust and Trust Waikato

FOUNDATIONAL RESEARCH   -   RESPONSIBLE LEADERSHIP

Responsible Leadership Capital

Based on the lived experiences of seventeen participants, this research explored the forms of capital leaders develop and how a responsibility towards community is nurtured through the programme.

Research supported by WEL Energy Trust


2025 SOCIAL IMPACT FINDINGS

Growth that shows up in people and community.

New graduates reported strong shifts in identity, self-determination, connection, and personal and professional development.

20%

Leadership Understanding

Increase in graduates’ understanding of their own leadership style.

19%

Confidence to Lead

Increase in belief and confidence in leadership abilities and their flow-on effects..

19%

Community participation

Increase in participation in community activities among new graduates.

16%

Cross-sector knowledge

Increase in knowledge and understanding of cross-sector leadership.

Reported shifts for new graduates in the 2025 CELF Social Impact Report. Results should be read with the report methodology and sample sizes.

CREATE THE NEXT RIPPLE

Help more leaders turn potential into regional impact.

IMPACT IN PRACTICE

The outcomes extend beyond the individual.

01

Confidence to lead

Graduates report a stronger understanding of their personal leadership and greater confidence applying it in new settings.

02

Community engagement

Participants increase their involvement in community activity, mentoring and service beyond their own organisations.

03

Cross-sector connection

Relationships across business, community and public life create a network leaders can draw on long after the programme.

04

Practical application

New perspectives are carried back into workplaces, boards and communities where they become visible action.