3 reasons why i wish i went to nyld as a student  

Let’s hit fast forward...

The day arrived. I remember sitting in the second row of the venue. Even though the event was aimed at secondary students, I had my phone out ready to take notes - I see every experience as an opportunity to learn something about myself. By the end of the first speaker's talk, I realised I had spent the first 15 minutes noting down all of the 'leadership gold' this guy was sharing, and I thought to myself: what have I got myself involved in? 

#nyld really did have a significant impact on me. The truth is, in my opinion, it is one of the best leadership development programs I’ve ever seen or participated in. I felt deeply inspired and knew this was an organisation I wanted to be part of in future.

I never got the chance to attend #nyld as a student. Here are 3 reasons why I wish I did:

1) Students are inspired to make a difference now, and not just in the future

I believe that young people don’t need to wait until they are older to make a difference in our world. They can make a difference now, regardless of their age and whether or not they have a position or title.

2) Students learn about the essential skills and qualities possessed by great leaders

Leadership is a big topic to cover. You can’t necessarily look at all of the components in one day, but you can unpack it over time. My role now allows me to have insight into all the work & preparation that actually happens behind the scenes at #nyld. They are intentional about what is taught and what leadership skills are important for young people to develop.

3) Students get exposed to some valuable resources and ideas

The day itself is both entertaining and inspiring, but Halogen also gives students and their teachers access to various resources and ideas to help them put their leadership into practice following the event. Sometimes this is one of the biggest challenges for a leader. You can be inspired, but often you don't have the means through which you can continue to learn and develop.

When you put all your time, energy, and focus into building on your strengths and your leadership skills, you never lose. Personally, I believe we need to mobilise not just the leaders of the future, but the leaders of today, and teach them to lead well in whatever field they pursue.

Since he was 14 years old, Nathan Want aka “Dubsy” has been fascinated by great leaders. Dubsy has spent the past decade working closely with young people and is one of Australia's emerging voices in youth culture. Through sharing lessons and insights from his own experience, Dubsy has the ability to connect with young people on a personal level and help them navigate life. He is known for his high energy, positivity, and his effortless hipster style.  He currently represents the Halogen Foundation as their Foundational Leadership Speaker.