THE DAVID NOTTAGE FOUNDATION

INDUSTRY READY

Giving young New Zealanders aged 19 to 25 the confidence to start their careers.

Charity-backed initiative · Practical toolkits & career guidance · Registration number: CC64764

THE TRANSITION CRISIS · AGED 19 TO 25

Bridging The
Confidence Gap

Completing formal study is celebrated as the finish line, yet for thousands of ambitious young New Zealanders aged 19 to 25, it triggers an immediate and silent obstacle. You hold the qualification and the technical capability, but when faced with high-stakes job interviews and senior networking rooms, the lack of real-world communication confidence threatens to stall your career before it begins.

The Interview Freeze Tension Point

Academic theory does not train muscle memory for unexpected behavioural questions, resulting in hesitation where decisive conviction is required.

The Unwritten Network Career Barrier

Over 70% of high-value professional roles in New Zealand are never publicly advertised: entering the room requires vocal presence and verified poise.

A focused young professional preparing earnestly for an interview

The Reality: Qualifications secure the resume review. Unshakeable personal presence secures the career.

Composite portrait showcase of diverse young New Zealand adults collaborating with confidence

DEMOGRAPHIC & EQUITY COMMITMENT

Cost Is Never
A Barrier

We work with young people aged 19 to 25 across New Zealand to unlock real workplace confidence, structured communication skills, and executive clarity. Because we believe capability should belong to everyone, every Industry Ready initiative is fully funded, free, or heavily subsidised by our charitable foundation and industry partners.

  • Exclusively focused on young Kiwis aged 19 to 25

  • 100% free or subsidised access to training and mentorship

  • Aotearoa-wide reach across urban and regional communities

No financial prerequisites. 100% mission-driven.

THE THREE PILLARS

What We Do

Equipping young New Zealanders aged 19 to 25 with the structured foundation needed to speak with authority, forge executive networks, and thrive in professional environments.

Confidence

Mastering the psychology of presence through structured public speaking masterclasses, vocal resonance techniques, and conquering high-stakes communication anxiety.

Connection

Bridging generational wisdom through one-on-one executive mentorship, industry roundtables, and direct access to New Zealand's foremost business leaders.

Clarity

Applying real-world interview simulations, workplace negotiation frameworks, and practical career navigation tools to eliminate ambiguity and drive forward momentum.

INDUSTRY READY PATHWAYS - free resources

WHERE ARE YOU ON YOUR
INDUSTRY READY JOURNEY?

Whether you're building your professional foundations, developing your confidence and influence, or ready to take your expertise to the next level, choose the pathway that best matches where you are today.

FOUNDATION / SCHOOL LEAVERS

FOUNDATION

Build the essential confidence and communication skills you need to make your expertise clear, credible and engaging. This level is designed for professionals who want to strengthen the fundamentals and become more confident communicating in their workplace.

EXPLORE FOUNDATION

INTERMEDIATE / JOB SEEKERS

INTERMEDIATE

Take your communication and professional presence further. Develop greater confidence, influence and clarity when presenting ideas, leading conversations and working with others. This level is designed for professionals who already have experience but want to increase their impact.

PROFESSIONAL / YOUNG LEADERS

PROFESSIONAL

Turn your expertise into greater influence and professional opportunity. Strengthen your executive presence, communication and ability to influence important conversations. This level is designed for experienced professionals, leaders and subject-matter experts who want to operate at a higher level.

HONOURING DAVID NOTTAGE · 1996 WORLD CHAMPION

The Power Of Confidence

DN
“
Confidence can be learned.

David Nottage

1996 World Champion of Public Speaking · 28-Year Inspiring Legacy

Overcoming debilitating speech anxiety to inspire generations of young New Zealanders aged 19 to 25.

JOIN THE MISSION

I Want To Make A Difference

Employers, schools, mentors and donors make this work possible for young New Zealanders aged 19 to 25.

Registered Charity • Direct impact for Kiwi youth career readiness