By Tupou Vaipulu Jr.

Ten Tongan students joined an international school-based leadership programme, hosted in Tongatapu, for eight days from 24 September to 1 October at Makeke Camp.

Fourteen international students came from New Zealand and Australia for the event organised by the Future Leader’s Academy, an organization that provides advanced school-based programs to develop leadership skills for students.

This year, Tonga hosted the program for the first time, where 10 students from different local schools participated in the self-funded program.

Alumni Staff Asistant, Manaia Barns told Matangi Tonga, they work to together with local organizations and schools to deliver activities that will help the students develop their leadership skills.

The visiting students also learned about Tongan culture, traditional dances, explored historical sights, and played Tongan games.

Tonga Rugby League (TRL) delivered a number of activities for the students on 27 September, which included various games that taught the students about leading and the importance of being in a team.

The program has provided the students the opportunity to learn from experienced leaders, develop their own leadership styles and support to take on leadership roles.