In this episode of the Authentic Leadership Podcast, Ivan speaks with Rachel Gu, a University of Auckland student, ANCAD youth intern and member of an Auckland Council youth advisory panel.

Born in Beijing, Rachel lived in Vanuatu before moving to New Zealand at nine. She reflects on how growing up across cultures shaped her passion for youth engagement. Together, they explore mental wellbeing, isolation, civic participation and the experiences of 1.5-generation migrants. Rachel challenges organisations to move beyond tokenism by ensuring young people are genuinely heard, valued and given meaningful opportunities to contribute.