BLUES STAND WITH BLUES CHARITABLE TRUST TO EMPOWER TOMORROW’S LEADERS
L–R Patrick Tuipulotu (Blues Captain), Rob Woodley (GM, Blues Charitable Trust), Nikhal Ravishankar (BCT Board Member & Chief Digital Officer at Air NZ), John Afoa (MC, BCT Charity Luncheon)
On Friday 16 May, The Lula Inn welcomed over 120 guests in support of the Blues Charitable Trust, an independent youth development charity equipping rangatahi across the wider Blues region to grow as confident, values-led leaders who are ready to contribute to their communities and future mahi.
The 2025 Charity Auction Luncheon was a celebration of purpose and generosity, raising close to $30,000 to support the Trust’s mahi.
The Blues Charitable Trust operates independently from the Blues, with its own legal structure, governance, and strategy. While we are not financially linked, we stand proudly behind the kaupapa and supports BCT through visibility, relationships, and connection to community.
What the Blues Charitable Trust delivers
BCT is focused on helping rangatahi understand who they are, where they are going, and how they can lead themselves before stepping into leadership with others. Its flagship programme runs for 12 months and includes self-leadership development, career preparation, digital tools, and access to real-world experiences.
Each student receives a personalised career plan that supports their growth, their choices, and their next steps beyond school. The programme is inclusive and practical, with voices from schools, mentors, employers, and young people shaping how it is delivered.
General Manager Rob Woodley shared how BCT continues to grow its reach, bringing more schools, partners, and opportunities into the fold. Speakers discussed the programme, the life-changing impact it has had, and how many students have gone on to take up leadership roles in sport, their communities, workplaces, and schools.
A match ball with real meaning
A memorable part of the luncheon was the auction of the official match ball from the 2024 Super Rugby Pacific Final. The ball, used during the Blues’ championship win and signed by captain Patrick Tuipulotu and head coach Vern Cotter, was donated by the Blues to support the delivery of BCT into our communities.
This ball carries more than historic value. It represents belief. Belief in our young people, in the power of leadership, and in the importance of giving back.
Why this mahi matters
BCT is not a sports initiative. It is a movement to support future leaders, regardless of their background, sport affiliation, gender, or career goals. From personal development to career pathways, students are equipped with tools they can carry for life.
Many of our players and staff are involved because they believe in it. They share their own journeys, volunteer time, and offer mentorship that bridges generations and communities. BCT’s work reflects the values we hold as a club, that “People Matter, Connection Matters, Excellence Matters”, and reinforces the idea that leadership starts with service.
With over 2,600 young people already supported through the programme in only three short years, the Trust continues to grow in reach and relevance.
But this work cannot happen alone.
Corporate sponsors, donors, mentors, and educators are all essential to creating these outcomes. If you are interested in learning more, supporting a student, or exploring partnership, visit thebluestrust.org or check out the feature from Seven Sharp here
Your support makes a lasting difference. Together, we can help more rangatahi make good choices for great lives.
