LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
Four Year 12 students, two from Northland and two from Auckland, are proudly representing the NZ Warriors at this week's NRL's 2025 Indigenous Youth Summit on the Central Coast.
They have joined a total of 64 students-four selected from each of the NRL's 16 clubs-participating in this annual initiative aimed at recognizing and uplifting the next generation of Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander, and Māori leaders.
The Warriors' representatives include Essence Smith (Ngāti Tuheke-Te Ahiwaru) and Gus Poi (Waikato Tainui-Te Arawa), both from Western Springs College - Ngā Puna o Waiōrea in Auckland. Additionally, Lyric Lee Te Rina Taylor (Te Aupōuri) and Tai Haki (Te Aupōuri-Tainui) are from Te Kura o Te Kao in Northland.
This year's ambassadors will also participate in the Bulldogs vs. NZ Warriors Indigenous Round match at Accor Stadium in Sydney on Saturday.
Last Friday, the four Warriors representatives were honored guests at the NRL match against the Dolphins at Go Media Stadium, where they were introduced to the crowd.