NYLD 2025 speakers
Check back soon for more 2025 speaker announcements….
Cam Calkoen – Dream Big, Achieve More
(Cam is speaking at all 2025 events)
Cam Calkoen is a professional speaker, adventurer, and dream chaser who has transformed what many might see as obstacles into opportunities for greatness. Born with cerebral palsy, Cam has defied expectations and inspired people around the world to reach their full potential. From representing New Zealand in athletics to climbing Mount Kilimanjaro and speaking for schools and world-class companies, Cam’s journey proves that with belief, determination, and a positive mindset, anything is possible.
At National Young Leaders Day, Cam brings his message of dreaming big and overcoming challenges to inspire the next generation of young leaders. He passionately believes that leadership is not just about standing out but lifting others up and embracing resilience. Cam’s energy, humour, and down-to-earth storytelling will leave you feeling empowered to set ambitious goals, rise above limitations, and live a life filled with purpose and awesomeness.
In a world that often focuses on what you can’t do, Cam shows you the endless possibilities of what you ‘can’ do. Get ready to dream big, push boundaries, and create a future that’s full of awesomeness!
Georgia Lines – Musician
(Georgia is appearing at all 2025 events)
Georgia Lines has garnered acclaim for her exceptional songwriting prowess, establishing herself as a standout artist in Aotearoa’s vibrant music scene and beyond. Georgia Lines has taken home four New Zealand Music Awards, most recently claiming Best Pop Artist in 2024 following on from her win as Breakthrough Artist of the Year in 2023.
Georgia’s talent as both a songwriter and performer shines through her work. Her debut album, The Rose Of Jericho, released on June 7th, 2024, hit #1 on the New Zealand Album charts and earned critical praise.
The singles “The Letter” and “Wayside” both achieved #1 spots on New Zealand radio airplay charts, with “The Letter” named a finalist for the prestigious Silver Scroll Award in2024. As a result, Georgia has now amassed around 10 million streams across all platforms.
Georgia has supported international acts such as Pentatonix and George Ezra, as well as New Zealand icons Bic Runga and Brooke Fraser, solidifying her presence in the music world.
Ezekiel Raui (Te Rarawa, Ngāpuhi, Ngā Kuki Airani), Head of Foundation, One NZ; Mental Health Advocate
Ezekiel is a leader who’s commitment to positive change and community well-being is an inspiration to those around him.. He is currently at One NZ as Head of Foundation and is working towards a Master of Business Administration in Management/Māori Business at Massey University.
His background in the youth sector includes being appointed Deputy Chair of the MYD Partnership Fund, and serving on the Youthline Auckland Board. He has also contributed to several regional and community-based youth development initiatives across Northland, with a focus on mental health and suicide prevention, through his long-standing involvement with I AM HOPE and the Key to Life Charitable Trust.
Ezekiel’s work has garnered recognition, being named a Queen’s Young Leader in 2018 and included in Forbes 30 Under 30 Asia/Pacific in 2019.
Teachers Session featuring Julia Grace
(Julia Grace is appearing at all 2025 events)
Julia Grace is a teacher, (with 30 years experience), International Keynote Speaker, Author and Mental Health First Aid instructor.
Named VSA International Breakthrough Speaker of the Year and PSA NZ Educator of the Year, Julia comes to the topic of Mental Health from three backgrounds: Education, Entertainment and Lived Experience. This means that when it comes to ‘Being Kind to Your Mind’, she gets it, she can explain it, and (very importantly) you won’t fall asleep in the process!
Having spoken extensively to Principals and schools across NZ and overseas, Julia brings her message of ‘Being Kind to Your Mind’ to staff, students and whanau alike. In this practical, interactive session get ready to be inspired and equipped with neuroscience based tools for better mental health and wellbeing for all ages.
This session is free for all teachers attending NYLD with their students. It takes place between morning tea and lunch.