Leadership looks different from here.
CELF brings together people from across business and community to grow their leadership, strengthen their connections and shape a thriving Waikato.
WHO ARE WE
Leadership is one of the most powerful forces for shaping a thriving future.
CELF is the Community & Enterprise Leadership Foundation - our region’s place-based leadership organisation.
We create the conditions for people to challenge their thinking, build meaningful relationships and lead with clarity,
courage and heart.
YOUR PLACE IN CELF
Where do you see yourself?
Whether you are ready to grow, invest or give, there is a meaningful way to be part of the CELF community.
01 · FOR FUTURE PARTICIPANTS
Grow your leadership
Challenge your thinking, broaden your perspective and build lasting connections with leaders from across the Waikato.
02 · FOR ORGANISATIONS
Invest in leadership
Strengthen leadership across business and community while connecting your organisation with a diverse regional network.
03 · FOR DONORS AND SUPPORTERS
Help widen access
Help community leaders access transformational experiences and grow their positive impact through the Ripple Initiative.
LEADERSHIP IN ACTION
Real growth. Shared across a region.
CELF alumni go on to shape organisations, boards and community initiatives across the Waikato. One experience creates an impact that travels far beyond one person.
10+
years growing leaders
190+
alumni across the region
22
leaders in a curated cohort
CELF's FLAGSHIP EXPERIENCE
Leadership Waikato
A carefully curated cohort of leaders from business, community and civic life comes together to see differently, think differently and lead differently.
This is not leadership from a textbook. It is an immersive journey built around real places, honest conversations and relationships that continue long after the programme ends.
“I learnt as much from my cohort as from the external leaders. It affirmed for me that the pathway to leadership is through service.”
Rachel Karalus
Leadership Waikato - Class of 2019
SHARED INVESTMENT
Partner with CELF
Help develop capable, connected leaders while strengthening your organisation’s relationship with the region.
THE RIPPLE INITIATIVE
Open the door for another leader
Your support helps fund programme places for leaders whose contribution can strengthen communities across the Waikato.
THE IMPACT CONTINUES
Leadership that grows people.
People who strengthen communities.
Communities that shape the future.
LEADERSHIP WAIKATO PARTNERS 2026
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