New Zealand was the first country outside the United Kingdom to host The Boys’ Brigade movement. Over the years, BB has established a strong presence here with a dedicated alumni network, many of whom I’ve encountered since joining BB over four years ago.

Our group of volunteer leaders, whom I refer to as Gideon’s army, continue to support the mission of shaping young people into good citizens who love God and stand firm in their faith. These committed individuals understand the lasting impact of the BB experience on young lives.

In recent years, we have merged two separate streams of work: our ICONZ programme and the traditional BB Company under one umbrella, BB New Zealand. This process, which involved changes to our logo, uniform, website (including the addition of an online store), has been challenging, but our leaders and volunteers have embraced it.

Communication and empowering our leaders remain ongoing challenges, but we strive to address them through our website, monthly newsletters, and sharing the inspiring events happening across our Companies. Encouraging leaders to explore new activities to help young people earn awards has proven to be a successful part of this process.

Last year marked a significant achievement with our largest contingent, of 15 young people, receiving their King’s Badge Awards at Government House. Our goal is to grow these numbers, alongside our National Leadership Development Course (NLDC) which allows young people to spend a week in a tough environment, developing leadership skills and personal growth.

Caleb, a young leader, said:

The values and team and leadership skills that I have learned at BB have helped me get a long way in life, through my leadership role as a head student and a youth leader, my studies at school and now at university and navigating my general life. The BB has been a huge part in my transformation from a boy into a man.”

BB New Zealand also runs an outreach programme that has been active for over a decade. This initiative works with disengaged young people in schools, teaching basic woodworking skills and helping to build self-esteem and positive behavioural changes. It also provides opportunities to share faith and engage in meaningful discussions while working on projects together.