Nate Wilbourne is a 2025 Young New Zealander of the Year semi finalist, and Founder and Co-Director at Gen-Z Aotearoa. He is a youth leader, conservation advocate and changemaker dedicated to amplifying young voices in New Zealand and globally.
Nate works to connect youth-led organisations across the New Zealand whilst networking and upksilling young leaders globally, helping them access resources, share knowledge and build collective power. His leadership and advocacy have earned him both national and international recognition for his work with young people and the environment.
In 2024–2025, Nate engaged with over half a million people on social media to take action for nature. He has collaborated with leading global organisations, spoken at several international conferences at 17 years old, and worked with communities to restore the environment and build platforms where young people are not just heard but actively shaping the future.