
Outward Bound Opportunities at Champions Initiative
Course: Discovery Masters 3rd March-10th March
I was fortunate to be given the opportunity to attend Outward Bound. Although I never attended as a young person, I felt very grateful to experience it as an adult. I went in with no expectations but came away with new and meaningful connections.
One of the highlights was meeting new people and having in-depth kōrero in a safe and supportive environment. It was also incredibly valuable to step away from the normal routine of work, home life, and devices, to have space and time to reflect. The toughest part was returning to normality after eight days away, but the kaiako shared some great tools to help carry the experience forward.
My biggest learning was that challenges help you discover new things about yourself, and that you’re capable of more than you think. The course also reinforced practical tools and perspectives that I can take beyond Outward Bound and into my everyday life and work.
There are learnings from this course that will help me in my role at Cannons Creek Boxing Academy (CCBA). The experience reinforced the importance of creating safe and supportive environments where people feel comfortable to share, connect, and grow. It also highlighted how stepping outside of your comfort zone can help build confidence and resilience. I believe these learnings will help me better support our members, encourage open kōrero, and continue to foster a positive and empowering environment at CCBA. I would highly recommend this course to others for the personal growth, connection, and time it gives you to reset and reflect.

Champions news and updates
Evalution Report 2025 shows Fantastic Feedback for All
Every single member who responded to the evaluation survey said their Champions Initiative Academy has made a positive difference in their life. Emphasis was given specifically to physical wellbeing, care and respect for others, sense of belonging, self-belief/confidence, and friendships. This is worth celebrating!

Passionate and Community Focused Manager Needed
The Naenae Boxing Academy has a vacancy for a full-time manager. If you are passionate about our rangatahi, and community focused read more!

Zakir Yusof - From Refugee to National Champion
Whenever Wellington teenager Zakir Yusof steps inside the boxing ring, he is determined to make proud all those who have supported his journey from refugee to national champion.Born in Afghanistan but raised in neighbouring Pakistan, Yusof arrived in New Zealand in 2017 with his mother and two brothers. He couldn’t speak English and spent his first weeks in a refugee camp, where he met his father for the first time--he had left when Zakir was a baby to try to build a better life for the family.













