Two Central Otago newcomers have won scholarships to attend the Business South Leadership Academy 2024 (BSLA), in the third year of the scholarship which attracted significant interest.

Central Otago District Council’s (CDOC) Welcoming Communities and Business South have partnered to support the leadership development of newcomers within the business, community and non-profit sectors. 

This year’s recipients Adam Stobo-Wright and Bianca Le-Gall (Mattson) will participate in the BSLA in Cromwell every Wednesday morning during September.

Adam is a solicitor at Southern Peak Law and is the current treasurer of Central Lakes Rotaract - the young adults’ division of Rotary International. 

His goal is to spread the word of the Rotaract Group, to recruit more members and get involved in a wide range of community projects.

He aspires to partner with businesses and local government in ways that will benefit our environment, our people, and our economy.

Bianca, originally from Australia, is the co-owner of Ranfurly’s Fantail Kitchen and a member of the Maniototo Business Association. 

She is actively involved in community events and acknowledges that the rural nature of the Maniototo creates an elevated risk of isolation and mental health issues. 

She is seeking to create a support network, particularly for youth, women and newcomers.

To achieve her goals, she is eager to develop her leadership skills to enhance her endeavours within her community.

Read more: Applicants for leadership scholarship wanted

For more information contact Welcoming Communities officer [email protected]