Champion's Resources
2026
Community Champions Resources
We’ve created this page to share resources that we hope will equip and inspire you to best serve your community.
If there is anything these resources don’t cover, we encourage you to reach out to:
Sally Lavea (National Programme Manager, ADRA)
Champions Conference 2026
All resources for the Equipped to Serve Champions Conference 2026 will be uploaded here. Thank you for your patience,
Sessions
Hui 1: Serving from the Overflow (Felita Tuiavii)
This workshop explored the difference between serving from spiritual overflow and serving from personal depletion. Drawing on Isaiah 58:11, it examined the often-overlooked signs of burnout and the importance of rest, healthy rhythms, and whole-person wellness. Through Scripture and practical insight, the session highlighted God’s design for a life sustained and refreshed by Him.
Hui 2.1: Uncertain Path, Certain Midwife (Pa & Kiri)
This workshop explored what it means to step out in faith and trust God when the path ahead is uncertain. Through the examples of Abraham and the disciples, it examined themes of obedience, courage, and dependence on God’s provision and guidance. The session also considered how faith, stewardship, and sustainable planning can work together to support community initiatives while remaining grounded in mission and purpose.This session focused on practical, science-based strategies for strengthening mental resilience and finding balance in daily life. It explored tools to reduce stress and support both emotional and spiritual wellbeing. Whether supporting others or focusing on personal growth, it offered inspiration and tools to help thrive with intention.
Hui 2.2: The Journey to Serving (Dr Iwi Te Whau)
Dr Iwi Te Whau (PhD, HonPhD, MinsD) is an Ōkurei Māori Councillor with the Toi Moana Bay of Plenty Regional Council, based in Rotorua, New Zealand. He also serves as Chair of Korowai Aroha Health Centre and has previously worked as a Kaitakawaenga with the Ministry of Education. Iwi is deeply committed to serving his community, contributing to local council work, joining hui (both in person and online), and supporting grassroots initiatives. He is a much-loved and valued member of the Maranatha SDA Church mentored by the late Pr Tata Strickland. At the heart of all he does is his strong love for God and for people, which shapes his passion for service and leadership.
Hui 3: Saved to Serve (Pr Andrew Hoeflich)
This hands-on session explored how to grow strong, connected, and sustainable volunteer-led initiatives. It covered practical tools for welcoming new volunteers, matching people to roles they love, and avoiding burnout. Topics included planning, budgeting, navigating challenges, and building partnerships that strengthen local mahi. At its core, the session emphasised connection, care, and creating lasting impact together.
Hui 4: Building Trust with Rangatahi and Communities (Swanie & Terry Nelson)
This interactive workshop focused on how genuine relationships, consistency, and showing up for people create long-term impact. Through storytelling, group discussion, and real examples from schools, businesses, events, and community initiatives, participants learnt how to connect with rangatahi and whānau in ways that feel authentic and effective.
Hui 5: Turning Ideas into Action. Grassroots Leadership that Creates Change (Swanie & Terry Nelson)
Terry and Swanie Nelson share how they built community initiatives, youth opportunities, businesses, and support systems from the ground up through consistency, partnerships, and action. Participants will explore a practical framework used by Terry and Swanie to identify
needs, create opportunities for rangatahi, and mobilise communities around shared goals. The workshop will highlight how small actions and local leadership lead to meaningful outcomes for young people and whānau. This session is designed for educators, youth workers, community leaders, parents, and everyday people who want to make a difference but are unsure where to start. Participants will leave with practical ideas, actionable steps, and renewed belief in their ability to create positive change within their own spaces.
Hui 6.1: Kingdom Values in Community Action (Naomi Saluni Tavau)
This workshop explored the role of values, faith, and social capital in building strong and sustainable communities. Using the work of Failoa Famili as an example, it examined how God-given values can serve as the foundation for meaningful initiatives across housing, health, education, employment, and youth development. Grounded in biblical principles and lived experience, the session highlighted the importance of stewarding God’s gifts to create lasting impact.
Hui 6.2: Serving Side by Side (Tusa Tavau Misikau)
This workshop explored how practical acts of service can bring different generations together to make a meaningful impact in their communities. Through examples of community-based ministry, it highlighted how serving alongside one another strengthens relationships, builds unity, and creates opportunities to live out faith in tangible ways. The session focused on the value of intergenerational service and the role everyone can play in bringing hope, care, and support to those around them.
Hui 6.3: What//Where/Why — Street Church? (Tungane Purea)
Tu is a faithful and dedicated member of Calvary Community Church. Alongside his brother Tighe and a committed team of volunteers, they
launched ‘Street Ministry’ at the beginning of last year. Since then, they have been providing a fortnightly breakfast for the community
especially supporting those who are unhoused in Manurewa—while building genuine relationships and taking the time to truly get to know the people they serve. Through an understanding of the Father’s heart, Tu and the team have been transformed and are deeply passionate about loving others with the same compassion and care. The ministry is also beautifully intergenerational, uniting volunteers of all ages to serve side by side, fostering meaningful connection and community across generations.
Hui 7: Strengthening Communities Together (Vaniva Lewis)
This workshop explored how faith-led community service can bring hope, healing, and positive change to individuals and families. It highlighted the importance of building genuine relationships, strengthening cultural connections, and creating inclusive spaces where people feel valued and supported. Through practical examples and lived experiences, the session examined how acts of compassion and service can create lasting impact within communities.
Hui 7: Hope on the Move (Grant Ingersoll)
This workshop explored how community outreach initiatives can provide practical support while building meaningful connections with individuals and families. Through examples of local ministry and acts of service, it highlighted the impact of compassion, relationship-building, and responding to community needs. The session also reflected on the role of faith in inspiring service and bringing hope and transformation to people’s lives.
Videos
Videos Shared throughout the Champions Conference
Extra resources from the Conference
If you can’t find anything you’re looking for, please contact [email protected].
Stay in Touch with other Champions
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