Meet our new National Youth Representative – Dan Wilden

Our newly elected National Youth Representative, Dan Wilden, is passionate about inspiring and mobilising the next generation of Red Cross people who volunteer their time.

With more than a decade of experience in New Zealand Red Cross, Dan has worn many hats – including participating in the Youth Emergency Preparedness Programme, serving on a Disaster Welfare and Support Team, and as a National Youth Panel member. His journey is driven by a passion for disaster response, a commitment to helping others, and a vision to create meaningful opportunities for young people to make a real impact.

“I got involved 11 years ago when someone asked if I wanted to join a youth programme Red Cross used to run in Dunedin,” Dan recalls. “After two years in that programme, I was old enough to join the Disaster Welfare and Support Team, and I’ve been involved ever since.

“About five years ago, I applied to attend a National Youth Forum, and they were running elections for the Youth Panel. I thought it was a great opportunity, so I put myself out there – and got elected. That experience eventually led me to my current role.”

Responding to disasters and building resilience

As a Disaster Welfare and Support Team member, Dan has been on the frontlines of major emergency responses, including Cyclone Gabrielle in 2023 and the 2024 Dunedin floods. 

“Being able to help my local community during the Dunedin floods was an amazing experience,” he says. “It was close to home, and it really reinforced why I do this work.”

Through these experiences, Dan has discovered his own resilience. “A lot of people get really stressed in disaster situations, but I thrive in them. I’ve learned that I can be a calming presence for others when things get tough.”

His background as a builder has also played a role in his Red Cross work, particularly when it comes to practical problem-solving during disaster responses. Whether helping set up emergency shelters or assisting with logistical planning, his hands-on skills have been invaluable.

Inspiring and engaging young volunteers

One of Dan’s key priorities as National Youth Representative is increasing youth participation in New Zealand Red Cross. We’ve set a goal of having 30% of our members who volunteer their time under the age of 30 by 2030. Dan is passionate about achieving that in a meaningful way.

“I think young people really want to volunteer,” he says. “Even if it’s initially to build their CVs, they also want to learn new skills, give back to the community, and grow as individuals.” 

However, he emphasises that it’s not just about hitting a number. “For me, it’s not just about having 30% under 30 – it’s about meaningful engagement. We don’t just want numbers; we want young people to feel truly connected to the work they’re doing.”

Mentorship is a crucial part of this. “I found mentoring opportunities incredibly helpful and rewarding when I was coming up through the ranks. Learning from others and then passing that knowledge on to the next generation of young leaders is something I really want to continue.”

Opening doors to international opportunities

One of Dan’s main initiatives is raising awareness of the global opportunities available to young Red Cross volunteers. 

“There are leadership opportunities not just in New Zealand but internationally,” he explains. “We have the Asia Pacific Youth Network and the Red Cross Red Crescent Youth Commission – there are so many governance and leadership roles beyond New Zealand Red Cross, and I want to help young people here get involved.”

At the same time, he wants to ensure young volunteers recognise the impact they can have locally. “There are so many opportunities to give back within Aotearoa New Zealand. Whether it’s through disaster response, volunteering with former refugees, or volunteering for programmes like Meals on Wheels, young volunteers can make a real difference.”

Overcoming challenges in youth engagement

Engaging young people in specialised roles like disaster welfare support presents its own set of challenges, he says.

“A lot of young people feel like their voices won’t be heard,” Dan says. “It’s important to reassure them that they will be listened to, that they can advocate for themselves and their peers, and that their contributions matter.”

By fostering an inclusive and supportive environment, he hopes to encourage more young Red Cross members to step into leadership positions. “It’s about helping them believe in themselves. When they do, they start to take on more responsibility and grow into their roles.”

The unique strengths of youth volunteers

Dan strongly believes that young people volunteering their time in disaster response and other activities can bring something unique. 

“Youth are hands-on, open-minded, and willing to try new things,” he says. “They’re innovative and adaptable, which is exactly what you need in high-pressure situations.”

He has seen first-hand how rangatahi | young people can become pillars of strength in their communities. 

“I’ve watched young people take the skills they’ve learned in Red Cross and use them in all sorts of situations – whether it’s supporting their peers through school exams or stepping up in an emergency.”

Looking to the future

As he settles into his role as National Youth Representative, Dan is focused on building on the strong foundation set by those before him. 

“I have big boots to fill,” he acknowledges. “Previous National Youth Representatives have done an incredible job, and I want to continue their work while also growing the youth presence in Red Cross.”

While the specifics of his long-term plans are still evolving, his ultimate goal is clear: “I want to see young people involved in all areas of Red Cross, both locally and internationally. The more we can empower and support young people to volunteer their time, the stronger our communities will be.”

Header image: Dan in Hawke's Bay as part of the response to Cyclone Gabrielle in 2023. 

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