News & Events
Pitopito kōrero
Deaf Leadership Programme
02 Sept 2026
Bringing our Deaf staff together from across Aotearoa
Sixteen Deaf staff from all across the country have come together for the first intake of the programme, joining a one-hour Zoom session every two weeks, with a two day face-to-face workshop planned for later in the programme. Participants also work in pairs, meeting regularly to learn from one another and complete activities through a dedicated module.
The programme runs for a full 12-months, giving everyone involved the time and space to genuinely grow their leadership skills and reflect on their own leadership journey.
Designed with us, for us
The programme was created by Stephanie, an experienced Deaf leader from the United States. While Stephanie uses ASL (American Sign Language), she has worked alongside a Deaf interpreter who is proficient in both ASL and NZSL, allowing the programme to be delivered in a natural and fully accessible way. Stephanie has also spent considerable time researching the New Zealand context, ensuring the content is relevant and valuable for our staff here in Aotearoa.
Throughout the programme, the focus stays on a Deaf perspective, creating a relaxed, natural learning environment where participants can explore leadership through a lens that reflects their own experiences and values.
Open to everyone, not just current leaders
One of the most exciting parts of this programme is that it isn't limited to people already in leadership positions. Whether someone works as a teacher, in IT, in admin, or in any other role across the organisation, all Deaf staff are welcome to apply. Bringing together people from different areas has already proven valuable, with participants learning from one another's perspectives and gaining a broader understanding of how the wider organisation works.
Looking ahead
Once the first group completes the 12-month programme, they will step into a new role, becoming leaders and mentors for the second cohort, passing on what they've learned, with Stephanie continuing to support from the background. This means a new group of Deaf staff will have the opportunity to join the programme in 2027, with even greater access to direct NZSL delivery.
Watch the video to hear directly from Amy, Catherine, Paula and Tim as they share more about the Deaf Leadership Programme.