New Zealand National Refugee Youth Council Announces Appointment of Daniel Gamboa as CEO

With an unwavering commitment to empowering refugee youth and a remarkable background in engagement and advocacy, Daniel Gamboa, JP is ready to lead the NZNRYC into an era of strategic growth and impactful change. The appointment comes as part of the organization's ongoing commitment to empowering and amplifying the voices of refugee background youth across New Zealand.

As the CEO of NZNRYC, Daniel will spearhead efforts to enhance the organization's impact, strengthen community partnerships, and champion the rights and well-being of refugee background youth in New Zealand. Daniel will work closely with the dedicated team at NZNRYC to ensure that refugee background youth have a platform to voice their concerns, access quality support and resources, and contribute actively to the decision-making processes that affect their lives.

Daniel’s journey from facing death in Colombia to finding a new life in New Zealand is a testament to his resilience and determination. Daniel and his mother fled Colombia when rebels threatened to kill them because his mother refused to hide the rebel’s weapons in her restaurant. Daniel and his mum then became refugees in Ecuador where they were violently discriminated against because of being Colombian. In 2012, after living in Ecuador for 6 years, the UNHCR resettled Daniel and his mother to New Zealand.??

Daniel holds a bachelor’s degree in Political Science & Development Studies from Victoria University of Wellington, a leadership diploma from University of Cambridge and a certificate in Refugee & Forced Migration Studies from Oxford University. ?Before joining the NZNRYC, Daniel worked as a senior engagement advisor for the Ministry for Ethnic Communities and the Royal Commission of Inquiry Into State Care Abuse.

As an active member of the NZNRYC prior to his appointment, Daniel has demonstrated his deep understanding of the challenges faced by refugee youth in New Zealand. He actively campaigned to dispel stereotypes and foster a greater understanding of the experiences and contributions of refugees in New Zealand. In addition to his advocacy work, Daniel’s expertise and insights have been sought by organizations worldwide. His involvement in international forums and conferences, such as the Annual Tripartite Consultations on Resettlement, Asia Pacific Refugee Rights Conference and Global Changemakers Summit, has enabled him to bring global perspectives and best practices to his work.

Commenting on the appointment, the board of trustees of the NZNRYC, expressed confidence in Daniel's ability to drive positive change, saying, “Daniel brings an exceptional blend of passion, expertise, and leadership to this role. We believe that his vision and determination will be instrumental in furthering the mission of NZNRYC and advancing the rights and opportunities of refugee background youth."

Upon his appointment, Daniel expressed his gratitude and determination to serve as CEO, stating, "I am honored to take on this role and to work alongside such a dedicated and talented team. Refugee background youth face unique challenges, and I am committed to ensuring that their voices are heard, their needs are met, and their potential is nurtured. Together, we will build a stronger, more inclusive society where all refugee background youth can thrive."

Daniel's rich experiences and achievements make him an exceptional choice for the role of CEO at NZNRYC. His leadership and strategic vision will be invaluable in driving the organization forward and ensuring the needs and concerns of refugee background youth in New Zealand are effectively addressed.