Four year 12 students – two from Northland and two from Auckland – are representing the One New Zealand Warriors at the NRL’s 2025 Indigenous Youth Summit on the Central Coast this week.
They have joined 64 pupils – four nominated by each of NRL’s other 16 clubs – for an annual NRL initiative which celebrates and empowers the next generation of Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander and Māori leaders.
Representing the One New Zealand Warriors are Essence Smith (Ngāti Tuheke-Te Ahiwaru and Gus Poi (Waikato Tainui-Te Arawa), who attend Western Springs College – Ngā Puna o Waiōrea in Auckland, and Lyric Lee Te Rina Taylor (Te Aupōuri) and Tai Haki (Te Aupōuri-Tainui) from Te Kura o Te Kao in Northland.
“This will be such an exciting and rewarding experience for Essence, Gus, Lyric and Tai,” said Warriors Community Foundation manager Charlotte Scanlan.
“The students from all 17 NRL clubs come together for an unforgettable journey of growth, connection and cultural pride.
“We’re so grateful to Te Rourou One Aotearoa Foundation, The Moko Foundation and Aktive Sport for their support with nominations this year.”
The four Warriors representatives were special guests at Friday night’s NRL match against the Dolphins at Go Media Stadium when they were introduced to the crowd.
Match: Bulldogs v Warriors
Round 23 -
home Team
Bulldogs
3rd Position
away Team
Warriors
6th Position
Venue: Accor Stadium, Sydney
During the coming days the young leaders will be “immersed in workshops, hands-on cultural experiences and targeted leadership development, forging lifelong friendships and a deep sense of purpose.”
From traditional practices to modern leadership strategies, every moment is designed to strengthen their identity, amplify their voices and prepare them to lead with heart and conviction.
The summit will peak with a celebratory dinner where four outstanding participants will be named NRL youth ambassadors, chosen to represent their peers and be the voice of indigenous youth in the game throughout the year.
This year’s ambassadors will attend the Bulldogs v One New Zealand Warriors Indigenous Round match at Accor Stadium in Sydney on Saturday.
