Alistair Kwun: Leaders needed

Leadership is what is needed, I used to tell myself.

When I was growing up, there were no Kiwi Chinese leaders. Now there are some, but they are still far and few. My challenge to Kiwi Chinese: step forward and make yourselves known.

As all New Zealanders grapple with a shifting national identity, Kiwi Chinese can help unlock the key to who we are, where we have come from and where we are heading.

By breaking down the 'them' and 'us' dichotomy (there is only us) we can shift policies and strategies to focus less on the challenges and more on the assets of cultural diversity.

Building a dynamic and confident multicultural nation requires a unique skill set.

Successful leaders listen to the values and aspirations of all communities. They are culturally agile and always strive to inspire and empower those around them.

A potpourri of values nourishes a leader: emotional, courageous, creative, passionate, humane, transformational, generous and compassionate.

Future Kiwi Chinese leaders will understand the importance of forging sustainable inter-cultural partnerships and place community leadership at the heart of words and actions. They will shape pathways for communities to connect more effectively and be able to straddle local and global networks.

This country is hungry for fresh insights and visionary direction.

The future is Us. Let's not be sheep when we can be shepherds.

* Alistair Kwun is a participant in the 2006 Leadership New Zealand programme.