Not everything that is faced can be changed; but nothing can be changed until it is faced.
James Baldwin, American Author
The Championeers Story (so far...)
New Zealand Championeers was born from an idea of Kerran Larson, director and trustee of Southland Mature Employment Services (SMES) Ltd / Charitable Trust, about modernizing both the old “suggestion box” concept, and the process of attaining entrepreneurial funding. This was supported by fellow director / trustee Ruth Lieshout.
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These ideas were in response to rising enquiries from mature employees seeking redeployment in Southland, their goal was to create a platform that fosters innovation, problem-solving, and entrepreneurship.
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With the collaboration of Accountant Jayden Prattley, the idea grew into a dynamic initiative addressing declining employment opportunities while helping employees and entrepreneurs turn ideas into reality.
Our Team.
Kerran Larson
New Zealand Championeers Programme Director
Ruth Leishout
Southland Mature Employment Services Ltd Trustee
Jayden Prattley
New Zealand Championeers Programme Coordinator
Our Panel.
The Championeers panel contains a wide variety of backgrounds and experiences, so you'll be sure to know that your ideas are in good hands.
Andrew Connor
Marine Engineering and Business Enterprises
Ashleigh Taomia
Financial Governance and Business Strategy
Burney Daglish
Management, Business, and Industrial Relations
Gareth Larson
Digital, Commercial & Technical Expertise
Mike Petas
Property, Business Management, and Brand Marketing
Pam Potter
Banking, Finance, and Business Advisory
Our History
Our Impact
Championeers Club - Ideas Implemented
1
Ideas Growth Fund - Funds Distributed
$5,000