🚨 Youth Mental Health Crisis: Be Part of the Solution
Join the 2025 NextWave Future Leaders Summit🌟
Let’s Unite To Change The Narrative
—equip New Zealand’s youth with the resilience, leadership & mental health support they need to thrive. Join us at the 2025 NextWave Future Leaders Summit & be part of the solution.
New Zealand’s Youth Suicide Crisis: A Call for Change
New Zealand is facing an alarming youth suicide crisis, especially among teens aged 13-17. The following statistics highlight the gravity of the situation:
New Zealand has the highest youth suicide rate in the OECD, with a rate of approximately 15.6 per 100,000 among adolescents aged 15-19.
6.2% of young people reported attempting suicide, with higher rates among females (7.3%) compared to males (5.0%).
23% of surveyed youth show significant depressive symptoms, a number that has risen in recent years.
Pacific adolescents are 3-4 times more likely to attempt suicide compared to NZ European peers.
Māori youth face disproportionately higher suicide rates compared to non-Māori youth.
These statistics underscore the urgent need for targeted intervention & support to help mitigate the crisis.
💡 Real Teens. Real Stories. Real Transformation.
🎥 Watch as Neve, Molly, Aliya & Emma share their life-changing experiences from leadership programs just like the 2025 NextWave Future Leaders Summit.
They came in unsure of themselves, questioning their potential… and left empowered, confident & ready to take on the world. 🌍✨
💥 Your Teen Could Be Next! 💥
Watching is just the first step—now it’s time to give your teen the opportunity of a lifetime!
SPOTS ARE LIMITED! Secure your place now & enjoy:
6 months of monthly Zoom connections & content calls leading up to the live summit
Meet like-minded teens, interact with each other & make friends for life
Learn summit content & have loads of fun
LIVE Summit on September 20-24, 2025
👉This Summit Is NOT To Be Missed! Secure Your Spot NOW! 💥
🎥 Watch the NextWave Future Leaders Webinar Replays
Missed our powerful live webinars? Watch the recordings now & hear from world-class mentors as they share life-changing strategies on leadership, resilience & success.
At NextWave Future Leaders, we believe our teens 13-17 years are our NextWave of Future Leaders & we are not only committed to building Inner Power, Leadership Power, Health & Wellness & Entrepreneur Power but also tackling the critical issues that our youth are experiencing today, like, youth suicide, mental health, social media pressure & bullying.
Our mission is to empower our teens with the tools to navigate all these waves & challenges & thrive for not only today but for their future & generations to come. By investing in the leaders of tomorrow, we’re shaping a brighter future, one youth at a time.
Join Us For 5 Days & 4 Nights Of:
Inner Power, Leadership Power, Entrepreneurship Power
& so much more...
Included:
Empowering Youth... Aged 13-17 Years Old
Date: September 20-24, 2025
Location: New Zealand
5 Full Days & 4 Nights Accommodation.
All Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner & Morning & Afternoon Snacks
All Bedding: Just Bring A Pillow & Towel
Safe Environment
Speakers: 20-30 Years Of Expertise
Build A Peer Group & Friendships For Life
Hosted By... Our Non-Profit Charitable Trust
Ticket Price: NZD $1,295 | USD $715
Welcome to NextWave Future Leaders
NextWave Future Leaders is a Non-Profit Charitable Trust dedicated to empowering New Zealand’s youth to become resilient, compassionate & capable leaders. Through mentorship, transformative programs & unwavering support, we aim to inspire hope, build confidence & create a brighter future for the next generation.
Our Mission
To reduce youth suicide & empower teens by equipping them with the tools, mindset & skills to thrive as future leaders.
Our People
A passionate team of mentors, volunteers & advocates committed to uplifting& guiding the often-overlooked youth of New Zealand.
Our Plan
Deliver impactful programs focused on mental health, self-discovery, financial literacy & leadership to build a resilient & inspired generation.
Our Program
Hey, imagine waking up every day knowing you’ve got what it takes to handle anything—like, nothing can stop you!!!
That’s what "Inner Power" is all about 💥💪
Ever feel like there’s a superhero brain hiding inside you, just waiting to break free? 💭✨
Well, "Mind Power"
is here to help you unlock it !!!
Taking care of yourself doesn’t have to be boring!!!
"Health & Wellness Power"
shows you how fun & exciting staying fit, eating right & caring for yourself can be 💪🍏 🥦
Friendships, family connections & teamwork...
With "Relationship Power", you’ll learn how to create, strengthen & maintain meaningful bonds with the people who matter most 🤍🛠️
You’ve got the passion, the drive—but what about the tools to lead ??? 💭
"Leadership Power"
is all about unlocking the leader within you ✨🤝
Got an epic idea just waiting to take off 🚀... or no idea where to start 🤷♀️
"Business Power"
is your starting point !!!
Youth Testimonials: Real Voices, Real Transformations
At NextWave Future Leaders, our impact is best measured by the stories of the youth whose lives have been forever changed.
Molly
Kaeshius
Miha
Te Kani
Neve
Kaydn
"It is easier to build strong children than to repair broken men." – Frederick Douglass
Our Speakers
Marlon Smith
Marlon C. Smith is a bestselling author & International Keynote Speaker with over 30 years of experience in youth leadership & financial education. He has inspired audiences in 45 states & 18 countries, including as a lead presenter for the Tony Robbins (GYLS) Global Youth Leadership Summit for more than two decades & Magic Moments Youth Leadership (Australia) & much more.
Felix Lin
Felix Lin is a dedicated advocate for youth leadership with over 20 years of experience inspiring young leaders globally. As a key facilitator for the Tony Robbins Foundation’s Global Youth Leadership Summit, he has empowered thousands of aspiring leaders through impactful programs.
Joey Ng
Joey Ng is an accomplished Executive MBA & Certified Financial Planner from Sydney, specializing in investment product management while passionately empowering individuals as a Tony Robbins Trainer. With a commitment to personal development & transformative coaching, he inspires others to break through their limits & live lives filled with purpose & fulfillment.
Tahlor Cahill
Tahlor Cahill is a rising star in New Zealand rugby, currently playing as a lock for the Crusaders & Canterbury. Known for his impressive physicality & strategic mindset, Tahlor has quickly made a name for himself, showcasing resilience & determination throughout his journey from youth rugby to professional competition.
Heather Yelland
Heather Yelland is a globally renowned leader in youth development and personal leadership, transforming the lives of young people through her impactful programs and mentorship. With over 30 years of experience, she empowers youth to discover their purpose, build self-belief, and make meaningful contributions to society. Heather’s dedication to fostering leadership, self-awareness, and social change has made her a trusted advisor to thousands across the world.
Sam Patel
Sam Patel is a pharmacist, natural health practitioner, and Pranic healer with over 15 years of experience helping individuals achieve optimal well-being. Combining science with energy healing, he empowers people to enhance their physical, mental & spiritual health, guiding them toward balance, clarity & a vibrant life.
Michelle Templeton
Michelle Templeton is a dynamic LIFE, HEALTH & WILDFIT® MASTER Coach With MindValley with over 30 years of experience, dedicated to helping individuals regain their health & embrace the lifestyle they love. As a TEDx presenter & natural storyteller, she captivates audiences with her engaging insights on holistic health & personal development.
....And More To Be Announced Soon!
Marlon Smith
Marlon C. Smith is a bestselling author, International Keynote Speaker & legacy wealth consultant with more than 30 years of professional experience in youth leadership, personal development & financial education. A Certified Financial Education Instructor & Legacy Wealth Strategist, Smith has spoken in 45 states & 18 countries & served as a lead presenter for the Tony Robbins (GYLS) Global Youth Leadership Summit for more than two decades & Magic Moments Youth Leadership (Australia) & much more.
Smith's career began as a Systems Engineer for two Fortune-100 corporations, & then on January 15, 1992, he listened to his heart & resigned from his corporate position to start Success By Choice, Inc. This pivot allowed Smith to apply his analytical skills to inspire others to maximize their potential & live with purpose. Between 1999-2005, he launched three offices in South Africa, with a 67-person staff, to develop a curriculum & global Train-the-Trainer model designed to amplify & educate millions on HIV prevention & treatment. His work has been profiled by Essence Magazine & other print, radio & televised media, leading to Smith being a semifinalist for Oprah’s BIG GIVE.
Smith is the host of the Breaking Barriers podcast & the co-host of the Breakthrough Millionaire podcast alongside Michael Quan. He is a published author of seven books, including Living with Purpose--40 Days to Empowering You & Your Family (2007) & an Amazon #1 Bestseller, Voices of Inspiration (2015). A contributing author to the international bestseller Chicken Soup for the Soul (1995), Smith has continued to empower people of all ages to interrogate & apply a winning mindset to their personal & professional endeavors. His forthcoming book, Break-Up, Break-Down, Break-Through (2025), explores strategies for acknowledging & overcoming life's biggest challenges.
Smith earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Virginia.
Grant Richardson
Grant Richardson is a visionary leader and a founder of NextWave Future Leaders. Navigating the challenges of fatherhood has influenced Grant’s journey and his commitment to empowering not only freelancers but also the next generation of leaders is reflected in his work with NextWave Future Leaders. Grant’s mission is to create a brighter future by mentoring young people and fostering leadership skills in teenagers, all while driving change in the recruitment industry.
As the President and CEO of Mercalli Freelance, he brings over 25 years of experience, transforming the platform into a global hub connecting freelancers with opportunities.
With a forward-thinking mindset, Grant embraces cutting-edge technology, revolutionizing how freelancers collaborate and deliver exceptional results. His passion lies in empowering freelancers to unleash their full potential and mentoring the next generation of leaders.
Felix Lin
Felix Lin is a passionate advocate for youth leadership & personal development, with over two decades of experience inspiring young leaders worldwide. Since 2000, Felix has been a cornerstone of the Tony Robbins Foundation’s Global Youth Leadership Summit (GYLS), an annual event that brings together 300-400 young leaders from around 30 countries. As a Facilitator, Felix has been instrumental in designing & delivering impactful programs that maximize content, emotional resonance & the value of guest speakers. His unwavering dedication to empowering the next generation has touched the lives of thousands of aspiring leaders.
Felix’s expertise in leadership extends far beyond youth programs. He has delivered transformative leadership training to diverse audiences, including corporate executives, startup entrepreneurs, gang leaders & incarcerated individuals. Organizations such as Goldman Sachs, Google, Draper University, & the University of Southern California have sought his guidance to cultivate leadership excellence & foster meaningful change.
Felix Lin is an accomplished executive with extensive experience in leadership, operations & corporate governance. He currently leads HF Foods Group as Interim CEO, President & COO, focusing on operational excellence & strategic growth. Previously, he held key roles at Blue Bird Corporation, overseeing departments such as Human Resources, Supply Chain & Finance, while driving international business development in China & the Middle East.
Felix holds advanced degrees in Finance, Accounting & Business Administration & has served on HF Foods Group's Board, chairing its Audit & Special Investigation Committees. His career reflects a commitment to fostering leadership & driving impactful change.
Grant Richardson
Grant Richardson is a visionary leader and a founder of NextWave Future Leaders. Navigating the challenges of fatherhood has influenced Grant’s journey and his commitment to empowering not only freelancers but also the next generation of leaders is reflected in his work with NextWave Future Leaders. Grant’s mission is to create a brighter future by mentoring young people and fostering leadership skills in teenagers, all while driving change in the recruitment industry.
As the President and CEO of Mercalli Freelance, he brings over 25 years of experience, transforming the platform into a global hub connecting freelancers with opportunities.
With a forward-thinking mindset, Grant embraces cutting-edge technology, revolutionizing how freelancers collaborate and deliver exceptional results. His passion lies in empowering freelancers to unleash their full potential and mentoring the next generation of leaders.
Michelle Templeton
Michelle Templeton is a dynamic LIFE, HEALTH & WILDFIT® MASTER COACH WITH MINDVALLEY with over 30 years of experience dedicated to empowering individuals to regain their health & embrace the lifestyle they love. As the founder of "Wild Ride to Health," she has traveled extensively, including to East Africa, where she studied the health practices of the Hadza tribe in Tanzania, known for their exceptional well-being. Her insights from these experiences inform her coaching approach, providing a unique perspective on holistic health.
A TEDx presenter & natural storyteller, Michelle captivates audiences with her engaging presentations on health, lifestyle & personal development. She offers tailored coaching services, including 1-1, group & corporate coaching, designed to help clients maximize their potential & achieve lasting transformation in their lives. Her ability to connect with people through relatable narratives makes her sessions both informative & inspiring.
Michelle is also available for various speaking engagements, including evening presentations, workplace professional development sessions, school education programs & youth group workshops. Her dynamic approach not only informs but also motivates participants to take actionable steps toward improving their health & well-being.
When she’s not coaching or biking through scenic routes, you can find Michelle enjoying her signature green drinks that reflect her adventurous spirit. She encourages anyone interested in enhancing their health & lifestyle to reach out—Michelle is always happy to help guide others on their journey toward vitality & fulfillment.
Grant Richardson
Grant Richardson is a visionary leader and a founder of NextWave Future Leaders. Navigating the challenges of fatherhood has influenced Grant’s journey and his commitment to empowering not only freelancers but also the next generation of leaders is reflected in his work with NextWave Future Leaders. Grant’s mission is to create a brighter future by mentoring young people and fostering leadership skills in teenagers, all while driving change in the recruitment industry.
As the President and CEO of Mercalli Freelance, he brings over 25 years of experience, transforming the platform into a global hub connecting freelancers with opportunities.
With a forward-thinking mindset, Grant embraces cutting-edge technology, revolutionizing how freelancers collaborate and deliver exceptional results. His passion lies in empowering freelancers to unleash their full potential and mentoring the next generation of leaders.
Joey Ng
Joey Ng is a dynamic Executive MBA & Certified Financial Planner based in Sydney, renowned for his multifaceted expertise in investment product management & personal development. With a mission to inspire others, Joey combines his professional acumen with a passion for coaching & transformative learning.
As a Tony Robbins Trainer, he empowers individuals to break through their limitations & embrace their true potential. Joey's engaging workshops are designed to ignite passion, drive & purpose in participants, encouraging them to pursue fulfilling lives. His unique approach integrates high-energy facilitation with deep rapport-building techniques, enabling attendees to achieve clarity & measurable outcomes.
In addition to his role as a trainer, Joey is an aspiring breathwork instructor & an experienced wedding MC, showcasing his versatility & commitment to personal connection. He believes that everyone has the power to redefine their goals & live a life filled with purpose.With an unwavering commitment to lifelong learning, Joey draws inspiration from leading figures in personal development, including Tony Robbins, Wim Hof & Ray Dalio. He is dedicated to sharing wisdom & strategies that foster growth, resilience & well-being.
Joey's vision is clear: to inspire others to embrace their passions, break through barriers & lead lives that resonate with their deepest values. Prepare to be motivated by his insights & experience at any event he graces with his presence.
Grant Richardson
Grant Richardson is a visionary leader and a founder of NextWave Future Leaders. Navigating the challenges of fatherhood has influenced Grant’s journey and his commitment to empowering not only freelancers but also the next generation of leaders is reflected in his work with NextWave Future Leaders. Grant’s mission is to create a brighter future by mentoring young people and fostering leadership skills in teenagers, all while driving change in the recruitment industry.
As the President and CEO of Mercalli Freelance, he brings over 25 years of experience, transforming the platform into a global hub connecting freelancers with opportunities.
With a forward-thinking mindset, Grant embraces cutting-edge technology, revolutionizing how freelancers collaborate and deliver exceptional results. His passion lies in empowering freelancers to unleash their full potential and mentoring the next generation of leaders.
Tahlor Cahill
Tahlor Cahill is an emerging star in New Zealand rugby, captivating audiences with his remarkable journey from a young athlete to a professional player for the Crusaders & Canterbury. Growing up in Christchurch, Tahlor's passion for rugby was evident from an early age. He honed his skills at Shirley Boys' High School before transferring to Hamilton Boys' High School, where he played for the prestigious First XV team. His tenacity & dedication were recognized when he was awarded the Sir John Graham Medal as the player of the tournament while representing the New Zealand Barbarians.
Standing at an impressive 1.98 meters & weighing 113 kilograms, Tahlor's physical presence on the field is matched by his strategic mindset. His journey has not been without challenges; after initially missing out on selection for the Crusaders U20 squad, he used that setback as motivation to excel. His resilience paid off when he earned a spot on the New Zealand U20 team & made his debut for Canterbury in the National Provincial Championship (NPC) in 2023. Tahlor's commitment to continuous improvement & teamwork has made him a respected figure among his peers & coaches alike.
In addition to his rugby achievements, Tahlor is pursuing a degree in sports coaching at the University of Canterbury, demonstrating his commitment to personal growth both on & off the field. He embodies the spirit of hard work & perseverance, inspiring younger athletes to overcome obstacles & pursue their dreams relentlessly. Tahlor believes that success is not just about individual accolades but also about uplifting those around him & fostering a supportive environment for growth.
As he continues to make strides in his professional career, Tahlor Cahill stands as a role model for aspiring athletes everywhere. His story is one of determination, resilience & the belief that with hard work & dedication, dreams can be realized. Tahlor’s journey serves as a powerful reminder that every setback can lead to greater achievements, inspiring future generations to chase their passions with unwavering resolve.
Grant Richardson
Grant Richardson is a visionary leader and a founder of NextWave Future Leaders. Navigating the challenges of fatherhood has influenced Grant’s journey and his commitment to empowering not only freelancers but also the next generation of leaders is reflected in his work with NextWave Future Leaders. Grant’s mission is to create a brighter future by mentoring young people and fostering leadership skills in teenagers, all while driving change in the recruitment industry.
As the President and CEO of Mercalli Freelance, he brings over 25 years of experience, transforming the platform into a global hub connecting freelancers with opportunities.
With a forward-thinking mindset, Grant embraces cutting-edge technology, revolutionizing how freelancers collaborate and deliver exceptional results. His passion lies in empowering freelancers to unleash their full potential and mentoring the next generation of leaders.
Heather Yelland
Heather Yelland is a globally recognized leader in personal leadership and youth development. With over 30 years of experience, she is the Founder of Ignite Camp (formerly Green SuperCamp™ Australia), where she empowers young people through personal leadership, environmental awareness, and social contribution. She is also a sought-after speaker and facilitator, delivering transformative programs across Australia, New Zealand, the UK, the USA, and Asia.
A passionate advocate for self-belief and personal growth, Heather has positively impacted the lives of over 250,000 individuals worldwide. Known as a "second mum" to many young people, Heather helps them unlock their true potential, guiding them to embrace their uniqueness and make meaningful contributions to the world.
With a background in Arts, Psychology, Family and Systems Theory, and Business, Heather specializes in helping young people discover their purpose and build the self-belief necessary for leadership. Her work extends beyond youth, having also worked with iconic brands like Macquarie Group, Mars, and Westpac, shaping corporate cultures and leadership strategies that foster innovation and engagement. Heather is a long-standing member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors and the Victorian Association of Family Therapists, and continues to inspire change through her international speaking and consulting work.
Her commitment to making a difference in the lives of young people and organizations worldwide has established Heather as a key figure in leadership and personal growth.
Grant Richardson
Grant Richardson is a visionary leader and a founder of NextWave Future Leaders. Navigating the challenges of fatherhood has influenced Grant’s journey and his commitment to empowering not only freelancers but also the next generation of leaders is reflected in his work with NextWave Future Leaders. Grant’s mission is to create a brighter future by mentoring young people and fostering leadership skills in teenagers, all while driving change in the recruitment industry.
As the President and CEO of Mercalli Freelance, he brings over 25 years of experience, transforming the platform into a global hub connecting freelancers with opportunities.
With a forward-thinking mindset, Grant embraces cutting-edge technology, revolutionizing how freelancers collaborate and deliver exceptional results. His passion lies in empowering freelancers to unleash their full potential and mentoring the next generation of leaders.
Sam Patel
Sam Patel is a highly experienced pharmacist, natural health practitioner, wellness coach & Pranic healer with over 15 years of dedication to helping individuals achieve optimal health & well-being. His journey began with a personal health challenge that led him to explore beyond traditional Western medicine, ultimately guiding him to a transformative path in holistic healing.
As a Pranic healer, Sam empowers others to understand the subtle energies that surround them & how these energies influence overall health. He is passionate about helping people lead vibrant, fulfilling lives with not only physical well-being but also enhanced energy levels. Sam believes that by embracing the principles of Pranic Healing, individuals can cultivate spiritual, mental & emotional growth, navigating life's challenges with greater ease & clarity.
With his expertise as a pharmacist & natural health practitioner, Sam brings a comprehensive understanding of the body’s inner workings. His approach integrates science with energy healing, ensuring his patients receive holistic care that nurtures both the body & the mind.
Sam’s commitment to personal & spiritual growth has taken him on a global journey. He has studied under Master Co in the United States, participated in Arhatic Yoga retreats in the Philippines, Bhutan & the U.S. & engaged deeply with Pranic Healing Masters in Bhutan. These experiences have enriched his understanding of Pranic healing, allowing him to share its transformative benefits for spiritual & personal development. Sam’s mission is to help individuals find inner peace, focus & balance & on a broader scale, to inspire peace, love & joy in the world.
A graduate in Pharmacy from the University of Auckland, Sam also holds certifications from the Australian College of Nutritional & Environmental Medicine & the Institute of Inner Studies, where he studied Pranic Healing. His unique combination of formal education& spiritual training allows him to provide a truly integrated approach to health & wellness.
Grant Richardson
Grant Richardson is a visionary leader and a founder of NextWave Future Leaders. Navigating the challenges of fatherhood has influenced Grant’s journey and his commitment to empowering not only freelancers but also the next generation of leaders is reflected in his work with NextWave Future Leaders. Grant’s mission is to create a brighter future by mentoring young people and fostering leadership skills in teenagers, all while driving change in the recruitment industry.
As the President and CEO of Mercalli Freelance, he brings over 25 years of experience, transforming the platform into a global hub connecting freelancers with opportunities.
With a forward-thinking mindset, Grant embraces cutting-edge technology, revolutionizing how freelancers collaborate and deliver exceptional results. His passion lies in empowering freelancers to unleash their full potential and mentoring the next generation of leaders.
Facebook
Instagram
TikTok