Business and Law students attend Global Leader Experience
Six law and 39 business students recently attended ‘Common Purpose - Global Leader Experience’ - an international programme for university students. Aimed at developing students' leadership skills to help influence the future of the world, as well as establish a genuinely global network, the event was held over 14 to 17 February.
The event marks the first time Common Purpose GLE has conducted their international programme in New Zealand, with AUT selected to host the inaugural four day event. The experience was exclusive to AUT students from varying disciplines who, collectively, represented over 38 different cultures and nationalities.
After a number of guest speakers, including Auckland Mayor Phil Goff, students were inspired to tackle real world issues using their unique cultural and local perspectives. Their leadership skills were put to the test as they engaged with their peers, as well as leaders from a range of organisations including BNZ, Auckland City Council and Leadership New Zealand.
Throughout the four days, students gained real and practical leadership experience by delving into diverse situations aimed at developing cross-cultural communication skills and equipping students with the tools needed to lead change. Relationships were built and networks were made as the event culminated in their ideas being presented to a panel of experts on the topic of civic engagement.
Pavee Patanasiri, a law student, was honoured to be one of those chosen to attend.
“I was privileged enough to be selected for the first Global Leader Experience held in New Zealand at AUT. The programme taught me what it takes to be a great leader with cultural intelligence whilst improving my teamwork skills, public speaking skills and knowledge of the community.”
For MBA student Grant Gurr, the biggest learning was being able to apply some of his MBA learnings to a diverse group with extremely different outlooks and belief systems. ”It taught me that if applied correctly, great outcomes can be achieved.”
He added, “The GLE opened my eyes to the fact that as you grow as a leader the influence you have on people can change their lives in a positive manner and there is a great responsibility that comes with this. Mindfully I check every day to make sure that I am bringing value to the people around me and that in turn, I am creating value for myself. GLE further opened my mind and I hope to grow off the back of the experience.”
Find out more about Global Leader Experience.