The Blues Charitable Trust (BCT) was founded on a promise – empower rangatahi to make good choices for great lives.<\/p>\n
Now, just over three years in, the Trust is stepping up again expanding its reach, strengthening its core programmes and continuing to walk alongside young people as they shape their futures.<\/p>\n
While BCT operates as a separate legal and financial entity, it continues to carry the mana of our club, using the power of high-performance leadership, identity, and mindset to uplift those who need it most.<\/p>\n
At the centre of it all is the BCT Flagship, BCT\u2019s core leadership programme for Year 12 students across Te Tai Tokerau and T\u0101maki Makaurau. What began in 2022 with a single school has now grown to 52 schools, with over 400 students engaged in 2025.<\/p>\n
These rangatahi don\u2019t have to be sporty, academic, or already in a leadership role. Instead, they\u2019re nominated for their potential, and backed by BCT to build the confidence, connection, and tools to lead in their own way.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe Blues leadership course was super beneficial and an awesome experience for me. Hearing from the Blues rugby players, who shared their personal journeys, challenges, and insights on leadership both on and off the field!! Definitely inspired us and gave us practical tools we can use in our own lives.\u201d – 2025 Flagship participant<\/p>\n
With 44.3% female representation and students from Northland to South Auckland, Flagship is creating powerful cross-region connections before students even leave school. Many describe it as the first time they\u2019ve been truly seen as a leader.<\/p>\n
\u201cI learnt what it truly means to be a leader not just by taking charge but supporting and inspiring others. I\u2019ll use the skills gained to lead by example, encourage others and make positive contribute to I can.\u201d- 2025 Flagship participant<\/p>\n
Beyond the core cohort, a further 1,096 young people have engaged through bespoke BCT workshops this year, reinforcing the ripple effect of the programme\u2019s values and tools.<\/p>\n
While Flagship remains the BCT\u2019s primary focus, especially during the Blues season, 2025 marks the quiet launch of something new.<\/p>\n
BCT Futures, a pilot programme for 18-24-year-olds, begins this October. It\u2019s designed to support young people transitioning into the workforce, especially those who are not currently in employment, education, or training.<\/p>\n
This tailored 12-week experience builds on BCT\u2019s foundations, offering participants access to real-world career tools, mindset coaching, and work readiness skills, alongside meaningful employer engagement.<\/p>\n
Backed by partners like Mainfreight, KiwiRail and Air New Zealand, BCT Futures is already showing signs of impact. In 2024, 11 rangatahi were offered summer placements through BCT, with several still employed today. Futures continues that momentum, offering graduates, alumni, and new referrals a pathway forward.<\/p>\n
In total, BCT will support more than 1,500 young people in 2025. And while the numbers are impressive, what matters more is the how, through care, connection, and a deep belief in each person\u2019s potential.<\/p>\n
While BCT operates independently, its kaupapa continues to reflect the values of the Blues, high standards, hard work, wh\u0101nau, and integrity. Led by General Manager Rob Woodley, supported by a cross-sector governance board, and delivered by a tight-knit team (Rob, Harrison Sanders, Heather McCrae, and Rosey Nathan), BCT continues to deliver with purpose and heart.<\/p>\n
BCT isn\u2019t just about preparing our young people for the future, it\u2019s about walking beside them as they create it.<\/p>\n
Whether you\u2019re a fan, funder, employer, or educator, there\u2019s a role for you to play. Sponsor a school, offer a summer placement, or share the kaupapa within your networks. Your support helps build confident leaders who make good choices, lead great lives, and shape the future of our region.<\/p>\n