Future Leaders Academy: Student Spotlight – Freya Kardas
🌟 Meet Freya
Hometown: Cambridge, New Zealand
School: Hamilton Girls High School
School Role: Deputy Head Girl, Student Council Captain (2023)
FLA Course Attended: Tonga 2023
Favourite Leadership Quote: "Being a leader isn’t about a title—it’s about the impact of your actions."
What she's doing now.
Currently an Enhanced Learning Coordinator at St Peters School. Also a Syndicate coach for Future Leaders Academy! Freya also works in freelance content creation and modelling.
🎤 Q&A with Freya
🎯 Top skills gained from you course in Tonga?
Decision making under pressure.
Resilience and adaptability.
Strategic thinking.
What drew you to FLA?
"I was eager to step outside my comfort zone and grow my leadership skills in a dynamic, challenging environment—one that pushed me beyond what I already knew. More than that, I wanted to connect with like-minded individuals, to exchange ideas, gain fresh perspectives, and explore the diverse ways that students across the Pacific lead and inspire change in their communities. This wasn’t just about leadership; it was about expanding my worldview, challenging my assumptions, and becoming part of something bigger than myself."
What was the most impactful moment of your course?
"Immersing myself in the local culture was more than just an experience—it was a transformation. I gained a whole new perspective on life, seeing firsthand how leadership isn’t just about authority or titles, but about service, connection, and community. Witnessing how service is woven into the very fabric of their leadership style was truly inspiring. It redefined the way I see leadership—not as a position, but as a responsibility to uplift and empower those around me."
What was your biggest challenge on the program?
"The biggest challenge I had to overcome was stepping into the unknown—being in an unfamiliar environment, far from the comforts of home. It was a test of resilience, adaptability, and courage. Every moment pushed me to grow, to embrace discomfort, and to find strength in uncertainty. But in that challenge, I discovered something powerful—growth begins where comfort ends."
How has FLA influenced your future goals?
"When I first stepped into the Future Leaders course as a Year 13 student, I had big dreams—aspirations to pursue tertiary education and study. But while I had ambition, what I lacked was a direction for this mana. Future Leaders changed that. Through this program, I discovered the courage to embrace leadership opportunities, both inside and outside of school. By the time I graduated, my hard work and newfound confidence were recognised with the Te Paewai o Te Rangi Scholarship—a $30,000 award from the University of Waikato for exceptional academic achievement and leadership in the community. But my journey took a bit of a rock along the way and I discovered I needed a break from study as my passions evolved, leading me to the education sector and youth development. Future Leaders didn’t just open doors—it paved the way for me, providing professional development pathways that helped shape my career. I first returned to Rarotonga as an alumni student, then as course support, and now, in 2025, I am honoured to step into the role of Syndicate Coach. This experience has been transformational. It has led me to where I am today—working as the Enhanced Learning Coordinator at a private secondary school in New Zealand, leading and supporting both staff and young rangatahi to achieve academic success, regardless of the challenges they may face. I owe so much of this to Future Leaders. The skills, the opportunities, the unwavering belief in my potential—it all started there. And now, I have the privilege of passing that same inspiration on to the next generation of leaders."
💬 Advice for Future FLA Students
"If you're searching for an opportunity—whether you're a school leader, aspiring to be one, or simply craving a challenge for personal growth—this is the course for you. If you’re ready to step beyond the classroom, immerse yourself in a new culture, and experience hands-on, transformational learning, then don’t wait. Invest in yourself, take the leap, and watch how self-growth unlocks doors you never imagined."
📣 Want to join the next Future Leaders Academy course? Apply Now
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