Environmental leadership is at the core of BLAKE’s mission, and over the past two decades, the organization has developed a comprehensive approach to nurturing leaders in Aotearoa. Through programmes like BLAKE Inspire and BLAKE Expeditions, BLAKE has created pathways for participants to grow into confident, knowledgeable, and proactive environmental stewards.
Developing Leadership through BLAKE Inspire
BLAKE Inspire is a cornerstone of BLAKE’s leadership development strategy. This week-long programme is designed to immerse participants in the realities of environmental challenges while equipping them with the tools they need to lead. Throughout the programme, participants engage in workshops, field activities, and collaborative projects that hone their leadership skills. The programme emphasizes critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication—essential qualities for any leader.
But BLAKE Inspire goes beyond traditional leadership training. By focusing on environmental issues, the programme instils a sense of urgency and responsibility in its participants. They are not just learning to lead—they are learning to lead with purpose. The programme encourages participants to take ownership of environmental problems and empowers them to be the change-makers in their communities. This leadership development is deeply intertwined with environmental stewardship, ensuring that BLAKE Inspire participants are equipped to drive positive change in their communities.
Leadership in Action: BLAKE Expeditions
While BLAKE Inspire provides the foundation, BLAKE Expeditions offers participants a chance to put their leadership skills into practice. These expeditions take young leaders into some of New Zealand’s most remote and ecologically significant areas, where they engage in cutting-edge scientific research. Whether they are monitoring marine life, conducting biodiversity surveys, or working on habitat restoration projects, participants are challenged to apply their leadership skills in dynamic and often unpredictable environments.
BLAKE Expeditions are designed to be transformative experiences. They push participants out of their comfort zones, forcing them to confront the complexities of environmental leadership. In the field, they must navigate logistical challenges, work collaboratively with diverse teams, and make decisions under pressure. These experiences are invaluable in shaping resilient and adaptive leaders who are prepared to tackle the environmental challenges of the future.
The Impact of BLAKE’s Leadership Programmes
The impact of BLAKE’s leadership programmes is evident in the success stories of its alumni. Many have gone on to become influential voices in the environmental sector, leading initiatives that make a real difference in their communities and beyond. BLAKE’s approach to leadership development—grounded in environmental stewardship and experiential learning—ensures that these young leaders are not only capable but also deeply committed to creating a sustainable future.
As BLAKE continues to evolve, its focus on fostering environmental leadership will remain central to its mission. By empowering New Zealanders with the skills, knowledge, and experiences they need to lead, BLAKE is helping to shape a generation of leaders who will carry forward the legacy of environmental stewardship for years to come.
This article is part of a series exploring the BLAKE’s 2024 Impact Report. Stay tuned as we continue to delve into the themes of environment, leadership, and youth that define BLAKE’s work.
