Youth Conference

Thursday, 7th May 2026 at 8:13am

An enthusiastic group of Student Council members from Green Bay High School had the opportunity to identify causes they are passionate about, while igniting that same spark in others at the World Vision Youth Conference, held earlier this week (Tuesday 5 May) at the Trust Arena, Henderson.

Vidusha Jayasinghe, James Cameron, Manveer Kaur, Stella Raccuglia, Disumi Nanayakkara Wasam Hapugalage, and Molly Mongston joined hundreds of like-minded young student leaders, sharing ideas, perspectives, and voices in an environment that encouraged openness and action - with the key focus on our Pacific neighbours in the Solomon Islands, where the effects of climate change are already being deeply felt.

A standout moment from the day came when Disumi showed great courage in sharing her story with the wider group. Having arrived in New Zealand from Sri Lanka just last year, she spoke about how much she has learned in such a short time and how the conference has ignited a strong passion in her to create meaningful change in the world around her. Her willingness to speak up and connect her experiences to global issues was both inspiring and deeply moving for those listening.

Building on this momentum, Green Bay High School’s Student Council groups are preparing for the World Vision 40 Hour Challenge, taking place from June 19th–21st, 2026. This year’s challenge focuses on supporting families in the Solomon Islands, where rising sea levels and changing conditions are making it increasingly difficult to grow food and fish reliably. Through their efforts, students will help provide practical, sustainable solutions so families can access nutritious food now and into the future.

We look forward to seeing the passion and leadership of our students in action as they continue to make a meaningful difference.