Emerging Leaders

Emerging Leaders Programme (2026-27)

Overview

The BBNZ Emerging Leaders Programme is an 18-month development opportunity starting in mid March 2026, for emerging female leaders in basketball. It focuses on empowering participants through residential workshops, mentorship, and skill-building development opportunities. Participants will gain increased self-confidence, improved communication skills, connect to a wider network, while being supported to put these skills into practice in their day-to-day lives. It is also intentionally designed to empower emerging leaders throughout their learning journey to contribute to the advancement of basketball associations, clubs, and associated organisations around the country.

Who is the programme for?

The programme is open to wāhine who are emerging leaders from across the basketball system, including (but not limited to):

• Players
• Coaches
• Officials
• Managers
• Administrators
• Volunteers
• Board or committee members

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must:

• Identify as female
• Be aged 18+
• Have the confirmed support of a Sponsor Organisation (association, club, or associated organisation*)

*Associated organisations include BBNZ Associated Members and wider partners across the sport, active recreation, and play sector. This includes disability and inclusion-focused community organisations at both a regional and national level.

Selection Criteria

Successful candidates will demonstrate:

• Commitment to personal and professional growth
• Intent to lead and implement change
• Passion for improvement and innovation
• Dedication to fostering inclusive environments
• Value of collaboration and teamwork
• Desire to enhance decision-making and think creatively

Programme benefits for participants

The programme offers a range of benefits that help participants grow as leaders. They will build confidence in their leadership identity, strengthen their problem-solving and communication skills, and deepen their self-awareness and well-being practices. Throughout the journey, participants form meaningful connections with mentors and peers, gain exposure to sector and business leaders, and develop practical skills in project design. By taking part, they also become part of a national network of female leaders committed to uplifting the future of basketball in Aotearoa.

The learning journey

The 18‑month programme supports participants through a rich combination of learning and development experiences, including three in‑person residential workshops, monthly online group sessions, and regular one‑on‑one check‑ins with the Programme Lead. Each participant follows a personalised learning journey co‑designed with the BBNZ Programme Team and has access to valuable mentorship opportunities throughout. A key component of the programme is the community project, which enables participants to directly contribute to the growth of women and girls in basketball. Overall, the programme aims to reduce gender barriers and strengthen inclusive leadership pathways for wāhine and kōhine across the basketball system.

Applications for the 2026–27 Cohort

Application Components

1. Participant Application Form
2. Sponsor Organisation confirmed support
3. Participant online interview*

*Not all applicants will be selected for an interview.

Key Dates

• Applications close: Wednesday 20 February 2026
• Successful applicant notifications: No later than 27 February 2026
• Letter of Commitment due: 6 March 2026
• Cohort announced: Mid‑March 2026
• Programme start: 16 March 2026 – This is where we will welcome you to this programme, with all the information for the programme ahead, for example, key dates and important information.
• First residential: Friday 17 – Sunday 19 April 2026

How to Apply

1. Complete the Participant Application Form – Link below
2. Provide Sponsor Organisation contact details
3. Complete online interview if selected

Need more information?

Contact:
Liz Worthington
liz@nz.basketball | 027 294 2272

The Participant Application Form can be found here

View the Basketball New Zealand Emerging Leaders Programme Handbook for 2026/27.