Our congratulations go  to Brett Maber.  Brett was a finalist for the Alumni Leader of the Year Award in 2022 and in 2023.  Brett was late to a conversation because he had been out on the field, pulling down goal posts after a kid’s rugby practice. Nothing like servant leadership in action.

Since completing the Community and Enterprise Leadership Foundation (CELF), Elevate Leadership Programme, Brett has not let the grass grow under his feet.  In business Brett and the Power Farming team have been committed to their purpose of "Keeping You Growing", be that as a customer, supplier, team member or member of the wider community. 

Brett  identified a  significant gap that was left by the discontinuation of the Gwynne Shield, a major component of school rugby in the region.  His solution was to create a replacement competition that is fit for purpose. The Gwynne Shield is one of the most reputable trophies in Waikato Rugby and it a testimony to Brett that Waikato have gifted it to him to have the Power Farming teams now play for Gwynne Shield.

Over the past two year, over 1000 kids are playing rugby thanks to Brett. Through sport and in this case, rugby, there is so much gained by those who participate, far beyond that of the actual game.

In addition to an amazing competition that has grown the strength of the fabric of our community, Brett has also pursued excellent in furthering his own growth by Studying at Harvard University this year.

Brett could not be with us in person receive this esteemed award on Friday 3 November. Tom Ruddenklau -  Power Farming CEO. raciously accepted on Brett's behalf.

Brett Maber is in great company as he joins our two previous Alumni Leaders of the Year,  Rachel Karalus, and Kylie Leonard, as Alumni Leader of the Year 2023.

Via video Brett congratulated his fellow finalists and acknowledged the founders of The Community and Enterprise Leadership Foundation.  He said, “CELF was a lifechanging experience for him.  It has given him a range of skills in his toolbox and the confidence to use them.”  He recognised the graduates of the Class of 2023 and encouraged them use the knowledge, skills, and connections they have acquired.

Brett said,  “CELF is the springboard that has given me the confidence to move to further studies and helped me evolve the business. It has widened my sphere of influence beyond business, and I have gotten involved in other community initiatives.”