The Innovation Movement
New Zealand Championeers is more than a platform—it's an aggressive push to foster Southland's growth. We are transforming quiet ideas into loud, real-world solutions.
The Story So Far...
New Zealand Championeers was born from an idea of Kerran Larson, director and trustee of Southland Mature Employment Services (SMES) Ltd / Charitable Trust, about modernizing both the old "suggestion box" concept, and the process of attaining entrepreneurial funding.
The Need Identified
The Collaboration
"Not everything that is faced can be changed; but nothing can be changed until it is faced." — James Baldwin
Supported by fellow director Ruth Lieshout and in response to rising enquiries from mature employees seeking redeployment in Southland, their goal was to create a platform that fosters innovation, problem-solving, and entrepreneurship.
With the collaboration of Accountant Jayden Prattley, the idea grew into a dynamic initiative addressing declining employment opportunities while helping employees and entrepreneurs turn ideas into reality.
The Championeers
A powerhouse of Southland's brightest minds.
Kerran Larson
Programme Director
Leading the vision for a more innovative Southland workforce.
Ruth Leishout
SMES Ltd Trustee
Driving strategic oversight and mission-critical support.
Jayden Pratley
Programme Coordinator
Turning complex innovation cycles into streamlined action.
Expert Panel
Andrew Connor
Marine Engineering and Business Enterprises
Ashleigh Taomia
Financial Governance and Business Strategy
Burney Daglish
Management, Business and Industrial Relations
Gareth Larson
Digital, Commercial & Technical Expertise
Mike Petas
Property, Business Management and Brand Marketing
Pam Potter
Banking, Finance and Business Advisory
Partnership for Progress
Administered by Southland Mature Employment Services (SMES) Ltd, we leverage the power of established trusts to fund the next generation of Kiwi ideas.
$5,000+
Funds Distributed
1
Ideas Implemented
Ready to make your mark?
Whether you're a mature worker with a legacy idea or a young entrepreneur with a disruptive concept, Southland needs your voice.