A new foundation is stepping in to help Nelson Tasman’s most promising young people reach the world stage, offering funding and mental well-being support for those navigating the pressures of elite performance.
The Inspire Foundation Nelson Tasman will launch on Tuesday, 21 July, at the Rutherford Hotel, with All Blacks performance coach Gilbert Enoka speaking and the first grant recipients announced.
Foundation chair Chris Davies says the organisation was created to fill a gap for talented young people aged 15 to 22 who have progressed beyond grassroots support but need help to reach international level.
“It could be sport, performing arts, the arts or volunteering – anyone who’s excelling in their field and needs that extra support to compete internationally and represent New Zealand,” Chris says.
Recipients can receive grants of about $2500 to $5000, depending on their level of achievement and need. Funding can be used for costs such as travel, coaching and equipment, with spending tied to approved expenses.
Chris says the foundation recognises that reaching the top of a chosen field often comes with challenges beyond finances.
A recent survey of Inspire Foundation grant recipients found about one-third had experienced anxiety or depression while pursuing elite-level competition. In response, the foundation offers access to counsellors, psychologists and mindset coaches, alongside a network of high-performing young people who understand the pressures of competing at the highest level.
The foundation also hopes successful recipients will return to mentor the next generation through coaching camps and workshops.
Chris, who is also owner of Harcourts Nelson, Richmond, Mapua and Motueka, says the region has an exceptional pool of young talent.
The foundation will cover the full Nelson Tasman region, from Golden Bay to Murchison. It has backing from Harcourts as a founding sponsor, along with support from the Mainland Foundation as it builds local community and corporate support.
Applications will be available through the Inspire Foundation website following the launch. Tickets for the launch event are available at the Nelson Tasman Chamber of Commerce website.
