I recently had the privilege of attending the Festival for the Future, a programme that took place on 17-18 of July, 2024 at TSB Arena, Wellington. This opportunity was made  possible by Sri LankanNZ. 

Tory Whanau Wellington Mayor, Mike Smith (Iwi Leader and Climate Activist), Tame Iti (Maori Activist, Actor, Social Worker), Brad Smeele (Motivational Speaker) were also among the leading personalities who participated.

‘As Aotearoa’s biggest leadership and innovation summit, the ‘Festival for the Future’ is one of the most inspirational events’ I’ve ever attended.

‘The event brought together current and future leaders from New Zealand’s business, government, and community sectors to explore the big issues of our time. The festival showcased what’s possible and helped build ideas and skills for a more inclusive and sustainable future (https://www.festivalforthefuture.co).

Over the two days, I was immersed in discussions and workshops that tackled critical topics such as climate change, social equity, and technological advancements. The energy and passion of the attendees were palpable, creating an environment that was both motivating and enlightening. One of the standout experiences was the opportunity to network with a diverse group of individuals who are all committed to making a positive impact in their respective fields. The sessions were not only informative but also interactive, allowing for meaningful exchanges of ideas and collaborative problem-solving. Each conversation I had opened up new perspectives and inspired me to think more creatively about how to address the challenges we face.

The festival featured a range of speakers, from visionary leaders and innovators to grassroots activists who are making a difference in their communities. Listening to their stories and insights was incredibly empowering. One session that particularly resonated with me was about sustainable business practices. It highlighted how businesses can be a force for good, driving not just economic growth but also social and environmental well-being. This session reinforced my belief in the importance of ethical entrepreneurship and the role it can play in creating a better future.

Another highlight was a workshop on Ethical Investment partnered alongside Pathfinder, where we discussed strategies on how our own personal investments on KiwiSaver, could be leaving a wake of trouble in the wider community. The workshop works alongside becoming more aware of where your money is invested and to be more mindful of the impact you have on the planet and your community and how you are able to make a change with small actions.

The Festival for the Future left me with a renewed sense of purpose and a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities we face as a society. It was a reminder of the power of collective action and the importance of innovative thinking in shaping a better future. I came away from the event feeling inspired and equipped with new ideas and strategies that I am eager to implement.

Inspired by this experience, I want to extend what I learned to my own Sri Lankan community. I encourage young people who are passionate about making a change to get more involved with programmes like this. By engaging in such initiatives, we can empower ourselves to drive positive change and build a more inclusive and sustainable future.

I believe it is essential for each of us to take the initiative and inspire ourselves to be active participants in shaping our communities. Whether it’s through volunteering, participating in local events, or simply staying informed and engaged, we all have the power to make a difference. By fostering a sense of responsibility and commitment to our communities, we can collectively contribute to a better world.

The festival has shown me the importance of community engagement and the role that each of us can play in building a better world. It has inspired me to take action and to encourage others to do the same. By working together, we can create a more inclusive, sustainable, and equitable future for all.

I am incredibly grateful to Sri LankanNZ for the opportunity to be part of this transformative event. The experience has inspired me to continue pursuing initiatives that contribute to a more inclusive and sustainable world, both within my community and beyond. I look forward to applying the knowledge and skills I gained from the festival to my future endeavours in creating change within our own communities.

By Senuka Sudusinghe – Wellington