Learning for Living: Leadership

As the school motto suggests, The Hillel Academy is preparing tomorrow's leaders to be well rounded global citizens ready to change the world and what the world needs more than ever, is leadership.

I have attached below the full script of my presentation at the Badging Ceremony on October 10, 2025.

SPEECH:

Principal, teachers, parents, and of course — our amazing student leaders.

It’s truly an honour and a joy to be here with you this morning.

Now, I have to admit — this feels a bit surreal. Standing here at Hillel Academy, in the same halls where I once sat as a student, brings back so many memories. I still remember racing to class after break, lunch time with friends, trying not to get caught talking too much — it was a time when I felt like anything was possible.

And you know what? The world still feels just as full of possibilities today.

This school — our school — helped shape who I am. Hillel taught me discipline, curiosity, courage, and kindness. So being back here — not just as a Member of Parliament, which I suspect is the main reason I was asked back here, but as a proud past student — is really special. And to make it even better… I get to pin my godson Rocco this morning! I’m not sure who’s more nervous — him or me!

Now, your theme this year — “Life is Limitless When You Believe” — I absolutely love that. Because belief is where everything begins. Every great athlete, scientist, artist, musician or leader you admire — they all started in the same place you are right now: with a dream, and a little bit of belief. When I was your age, I never imagined I’d be standing here giving a keynote speech — much less serving my country as an MP. Back then, my dreams were simpler: maybe to make the football team, or to pass a big test. But every time I believed in myself enough to try, something amazing happened — I grew. I learned. I got stronger.

That’s the thing about belief — it does the same thing to us as gas does to a car. It keeps you going…even when things get tough. Because let’s be honest — leadership isn’t always easy. Sometimes, people won’t agree with your ideas. Sometimes, things won’t go your way. But those are the moments when belief matters most.

Being a leader isn’t about being the loudest voice, or the one in charge all the time. It’s about being kind, dependable, and brave enough to do what’s right — even when it’s hard. Sometimes, it’s as simple as standing up for a friend. Or including someone who feels left out. Or trying again after you’ve failed.

The badge you’ll receive today — it’s not just a symbol. It’s a promise. A promise to lead with integrity. A promise to serve others. And a promise to believe in yourself — and in those around you. Because leadership is contagious. When you believe in yourself, something really special happens. Others start to believe in themselves too.

Now, you’ll have days when things don’t go as planned. Maybe you forget your homework, or your class project doesn’t turn out right. That’s okay! Every great leader has those moments. The secret is simple — keep going, keep learning, and keep believing that you can.

And if you ever start to doubt that you can make a difference — just look around this room. You’re surrounded by teachers who believe in you, parents who support you, and friends and family who cheer you on. That’s your community — that’s your foundation.

As a Hillel alumnus, I can tell you firsthand: The lessons you learn here - they stay with you forever. So as you step into your roles as student leaders this year, I challenge you to: Lead with heart. Lead with humility. Lead with purpose. And always remember — life is truly limitless when you believe.

To my godson Rocco — and to every student leader being pinned today — congratulations! Wear your badges proudly, because you’ve earned them. But even more importantly — live up to them. Show your leadership not just in what you say, but in what you do every single day.

Thank you again for allowing me to share this moment with you. It’s a full-circle experience for me — one that makes me incredibly proud of what Hillel continues to represent: Excellence. Character. And the belief that anything is possible.

Thank you, and have a fantastic morning!