The annual Champagnat Marist Student Leaders Forum in Christchurch, Aotearoa - New Zealand, recently concluded, with 38 students participating. It was a fantastic experience for all involved, writes Daniel Dungey, Partnership Coordinator for New Zealand, Fiji, Samoa, and Kiribati.
Our annual Champagnat Marist Student Leaders Forum in Otautahi Christchurch took place from 20-23 February this year with 38 student leaders across 10 of our 11 schools’ network in attendance.
The 18th edition of this student formation experience on ‘Servant Leadership’ was enhanced with each of the 10 schools having an accompanying senior staff member to journey alongside their rangatahi (Māori for young people). With this expectation now embedded into our forum, I believe our network of belonging will continue to grow through new and authentic relationships that in turn will seek our Marist educators to explore practical ways to keep our founders dream alive to the young people whom we serve. We are stronger together!
Our time together in community was spirit-filled and we ensured that our Champagnat Marist Way to Jesus was not just a head journey but a journey of the heart. The programme consisted of ‘beginning stories’ of Jesus, Marcellin, our Catholic faith in Aotearoa and of self. A balance of group activities and self-reflection was well received while the organising and celebration of our youth mass was a real highlight.
Many people contributed to the success of this programme and Amy Aukusitino, Joanie Roberson and I are extremely grateful to:
Martin Brennan & Amituana’i Fuetanoa Kose Seinafo, Xavier College Old Boys, for their ongoing support and leading a workshop session on ‘Servant Leadership’.
Bishop Michael Gielen for joining and leading us in community for our Saturday evening Mass.
The ‘Special 10’ staff and their Mary-inspired ‘YES’ to be part of this wonderful journey.
Our Champagnat Marist Principals and DRS’ who prepared and supported their student leaders.
Ms Lee-Ann Nanai (Principal), Danny Nicholls (Deputy Principal), Mathew Harris (DRS), Matua Jarrod Satherley and the Catholic Cathedral College whanau for their welcome and hospitality upon our arrival into Christchurch on the first day.
The various responses from the student leaders' evaluations forms reaffirmed the significant impact that this gathering had on our rangatahi. Some examples included:
"The most valuable aspect was meeting fellow leaders who are in a similar position to me and knowing we are sisters and brothers connected by St Marcellin Champagnat."
"I loved seeing all the different expressions of the Marist spirit and how it is kept alive today."
"This programme really helps those going into leadership roles – to build up their confidence more, get a better understanding of their role and how we can share the light of Christ in us with others."
"Servant leadership comprises of leaving your title at the door, serving from the ground up and to lead with humility."
"I was inspired by how others are ‘living the Marist values’ and how we leaders can promote this back in our schools upon our return."
"It is an honour and privilege to serve as a Marist leader guided by Mary’s example."
"The forum taught me the simplicity of my strengths and easy, humble ways to share them with others."
Following are some pics from the wonderful gathering:
Written by Daniel Dungey
Pic Courtesy: Daniel Dungey
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