Te Arikinui Kuini Ngā wai hono i te pō will travel to London this week to celebrate the achievements of young Māori entrepreneurs taking part in the 50th anniversary celebrations of The King’s Trust Aotearoa New Zealand.
The visit highlights growing international recognition of rangatahi-led enterprise and the role Māori business innovation is playing in creating opportunities for whānau and communities across Aotearoa.
Four rangatahi entrepreneurs supported by The King’s Trust Aotearoa New Zealand will attend major events in London, including a celebration at the Royal Albert Hall and a garden party at Buckingham Palace.
The young business leaders have each established enterprises aimed at generating employment, strengthening local economies and supporting positive outcomes within their communities.
During their time overseas, the entrepreneurs will connect with founders and innovators from around the world, building international networks and learning from global business leaders and supporters.
The King’s Trust, formerly established to help young people transition from education into employment and entrepreneurship, is marking 50 years of operation this year.
Kiingitanga spokesperson Rahui Papa says the success of the rangatahi reflects the importance of leadership, innovation and creating pathways for future generations to thrive both nationally and internationally.
The trip also signals the growing visibility of Māori entrepreneurship on the world stage, particularly as indigenous-led business models continue gaining attention for their focus on sustainability, community wellbeing and intergenerational success.
Recent findings from The King’s Trust Aotearoa New Zealand’s He Kākano Impact Report show 93 percent of young entrepreneurs supported into business through the programme remained operational after two years.
The figure significantly exceeds wider business survival rates, where only 37 percent of start-up businesses typically remain operating over the same period.
Supporters say the results demonstrate the value of targeted mentoring, investment and culturally grounded support for rangatahi seeking to establish long-term sustainable businesses.
The London visit is being seen as both a celebration of Māori enterprise and an opportunity to strengthen international relationships that could open further opportunities for future generations of indigenous entrepreneurs.
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