YLC NZ (Day Scholar Registration Open)
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About This Event
Youth Leadership Certification – New Zealand 2026 is a premier three-day, certification-based leadership program taking place from April 20–22, 2026, in Auckland. Designed for emerging leaders, students, and professionals, the program focuses on “Leading with Purpose in a Tech-Driven World.” Academically driven by the Global Business Symposium (GBS, USA) and locally organised by AREHMAN LAB LTD, the summit brings together participants from 45+ countries.
The Youth Leadership Certification - New Zealand 2026 is a highly structured, experiential learning journey that moves decisively beyond theory. The program emphasizes adaptability, ethical decision-making, and real-world application through simulations, collaborative challenges, and case-based problem solving. Participants can join through two pathways: • International Entry (global delegates) • Day Scholar (NZ-based participants) offering the same experience at a significantly reduced cost Core Themes & Objectives: - Adaptive Leadership: Distinguishing between technical and adaptive challenges to lead effectively in uncertain environments. - Entrepreneurial Thinking: Developing an opportunity-driven mindset to transform global challenges into scalable solutions. - Leadership Communication: Mastering strategic storytelling to align diverse stakeholders and build trust. - AI and Innovation: Understanding the ethical and strategic integration of emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence. What to Expect: Participants will engage in focused group discussions, public speaking workshops, and personal branding sessions. The certification is designed to prepare youth for real-world leadership, helping them build influence and launch purposeful ventures. Key Outcomes: - Strengthened capacity for leading through complexity. - Enhanced communication and narrative clarity. - Future-readiness through technological awareness. - Global networking with like-minded young and experienced professionals.
What You'll Learn
- Adaptive leadership and systems thinking in complex environments
- Ethical leadership and decision-making in the age of AI
- Entrepreneurial and opportunity-driven leadership mindsets
- Strategic communication and storytelling for influence
- Future readiness, innovation, and human-centred technology leadership
Event Schedule
Featured Speakers
ATTIQ UR REHMAN
Dr. Attiqur Rehman (PhD, M.npn, PMP | Ex Lt. Colonel) is the CEO of ARehman Lab and a global expert in Neuro-Hybrid Transformation, Human–Autonomous Systems, and Business Agility. With a PhD in Human and Autonomous Systems and an MBA in Neuroscience, he bridges leadership, mindset transformation, and emerging technologies. Dr. Rehman has worked with the Pakistan Military, UN, UK Government, and Auckland Transport (NZ) and held academic roles at NUST, Queen’s University Belfast, Auckland University of Technology, Unitec, and Wintec, focusing on applied neuroscience, digital transformation, and human–machine trust.
MARIE JOASIE(MJ) ALVAREZ
Maria Jose (MJ) Alvarez is the Managing Partner at WNT Ventures, a deep-tech venture capital firm driving innovation from research to global impact. She serves on the boards of Opo Bio, Lāso Automated Medical Systems, and BSPKL, providing strategic leadership to high-growth tech ventures. A member of Global Women (NZ), MJ champions women in leadership, entrepreneurship, and the advancement of deep-tech ecosystems.
LOUREN SODERBERG
Lauren Soderberg is an Olympic coach from Australia and Founder & CEO of Progressive Coaches, promoting leadership, wellbeing, and inclusive coaching in sport. She is a Board Member of the Women’s Coaching Association Australia and High Performance Coach at Soderberg Academy, developing the next generation of sports leaders. Lauren is also an FIVB Coaching Instructor, supporting international coach development and sport-for-development initiatives.
HABIB BALUWALA PHD
Dr. Habib Baluwala is an AI strategy and transformation executive with a PhD from Oxford, specializing in scaling AI across enterprises and national programs. He is GM of AI and Data Foundations and Domain Chapter Lead at Spark New Zealand, and also serves as an AI Consultant and Data Scientist at Soltius NZ Ltd. As an Executive Council Member of AI Forum New Zealand, he drives responsible AI development and innovation across industries.
DR ELLEN JOAN FORD
Dr. Ellen Joan Ford is a speaker, facilitator, and author specializing in leadership, team development, workplace culture, and the future of work. She is the founder of WorkSchool Hours and Belonging, co-author of the Rattled Awake Anthology Series, and a co-researcher with Rural Leaders. A passionate advocate for purpose-driven leadership and inclusive workplaces, she was named Kiwibank New Zealander of the Year – Local Hero 2023 for her contributions to community and leadership development.
SHAHZAD MIRZA
TRAINER,IT AND DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION EXPERT, EDUCATOR ,PODCAST HOST
Event Information
Who Should Attend
- High-potential university students (18–35)
- Young professionals and emerging leaders
- Social innovators and change-makers
- International delegates seeking global leadership exposure
Venue & Logistics
Everything you need to know about the event location
Hotel & Location
- The vibrant waterfront
- Key city landmarks
- Local dining and transport hubs
Facilities & Experience
- - Full Summit Access
- - Professional Fellowship Kit & Merchandise
- - Networking Lunches and Tea Breaks
Accommodation
Access & Parking
- On-site Parking: Valet parking is available at the hotel (subject to availability).
- Public Parking: Paid parking is available at various city-center parking buildings adjacent to major hotels, including the Farmers Car Park and SkyCity Parking.
- Accessibility: Most nearby facilities offer 24/7 access and include dedicated accessible parking spaces.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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