For 16-year-olds Russell Hockley and Kent Mills, from Taranaki, attending Blue Light’s Life Skills Camp and gaining two of the top three awards has inspired them both to pursue careers in the New Zealand Army.
“I pushed myself out of my comfort zone and learned to make friends with people in a short space of time,” Kent shared about his experience “I got heaps of discipline out of the camp and wished I could stay longer” added Russell.
PHOTO ABOVE: L to R: Inspector Peter Cooper, NZ Police and Blue Light’s Burnham Life Skills camp 17-21 November Overall Merit Winner Russell Hockley
PHOTO ABOVE: L to R: Inspector Peter Cooper, NZ Police and Blue Light’s Burnham Life Skills camp 17-21 November Peers’ Choice Award Winner Kent Mills.
Held at Burnham Military Base from 17 – 21 November 2024, it was Kent’s ability to form meaningful friendships at the Life Skills camp that saw him awarded the Peers’ Choice Award. Decided by his peers, the Defence Force and Blue Light staff Kent won because of his improvement throughout camp.
Nikita Marks, Blue Light Camp Coordinator explained “On camp, Kent demonstrated what it means to be a part of a team. His unwavering encouragement, respect, participation, and teamwork were evident throughout, and it’s no surprise that his peers recognised these qualities with his well-deserved award.”
“I was happy—it felt great to know my peers saw me as the top student,” Kent says, expressing pride in earning their recognition and respect for his award win.
Russell Hockley (Front Left), Stretcher Challenge at Blue Light’s Burnham Life Skills camp 17 – 21 November 2024.
Kent Mills (Front Right), Stretcher Challenge at Blue Light’s Burnham Life Skills camp 17 – 21 November 2024.
“I was nervous because I didn’t think I was going to get an award,” Russell admitted, but his efforts and positive attitude were recognised by the Defence Force and Blue Light Staff which saw him receiving the Overall Merit Award. Nikita Marks said “Russell showed growth throughout the camp. His attitude, self-discipline, self-confidence, participation, and teamwork stood out”
Both teens have big plans for the future. Kent, from Hamilton Boys’ High School, is focused on continuing to play rugby for the 1st XV rugby team at Hamilton Boys’ High School, with aspirations to join the New Zealand Army and eventually aim for the New Zealand Special Air Service (NZSAS). Russell, from Te Paepae o Aotea, is also determined to join the army with eyes on initially completing the Limited Service Volunteer course (LSV).
Saskia Mills, Blue Light Coordinator from Central Taranaki, who referred Kent and Russell to the Life Skills Camp, emphasised “I would 100% recommend it. The Blue Light Life Skills course is a great opportunity for our young people to try something new, push themselves out of their comfort zone, and also have the experience of being on a military base. The Defence Force staff are really passionate about providing quality experiences and programmes for our youth. It’s an authentic week and one our young people won’t ever forget… and who knows where it may take them.” Kent and Russell also encouraged others to attend “Go and give it a try. You will really enjoy it.” “It gives you discipline and drives you to do better in life”.
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