Speakers
Simon McKinney
Simon McKinney is New Zealand’s #1 stand up character impressionist and a much sought-after MC for both live and corporate performances. He has travelled the world, performed at Edinburgh Festivals, all across the UK, in the USA, around the Pacific, Asia, Antarctica, and even for the troops in Afghanistan. Simon has made multiple appearances at both NZ and international comedy festivals, on television and radio, and has released a one-hour solo stand-up special on iTunes. Although he’s a new face for the Australian members, Simon returns as MC for our Laser Group NZ members who enjoyed his antics and clever comedic talent at the 2023 LaserCon event.
Dr Michelle Dickinson
Michelle has made it her life mission to make science and engineering fun and accessible for all through different media platforms including authoring bestselling books, hosting/co-creating TV shows and top charting podcasts. With a PhD in Biomedical and Materials Engineering, Michelle has combined her interests to give her a unique insight into how nature and technology can learn from each other for scientific developments. Her vision is to create positive role models in the world that our children can aspire to be like and ensure that everyone has access to learning about science and how things work, no matter what their age or education level.
Dave Letele
Former professional boxer, Dave Letele (AKA Brown Buttabean), is a South Auckland community leader who uses his platform to advocate for families in need. Having grown up with a father who was the president of the Mongrel Mob and in and out of prison throughout his childhood, Dave understands what it means to struggle. It took Dave a near-death experience to pull him out of a downward spiral. From there, he embarked on a journey that led to him owning several businesses, playing rugby league all over the world, becoming a professional boxer, losing almost 100 kg in body weight, and starting over. Nothing quite beats a real story straight from the heart and Dave will take you on a roller coaster ride of emotions where you will come out understanding the power of determination, perseverance, hard work, taking that first step and hope!
Gilbert Enoka
Gilbert Enoka has a long history of success as a mental skills coach with New Zealand’s corporate and sporting elite. He is internationally renowned for his 23-year history with the All Blacks, first as their mental skills coach and then as All Blacks Manager – Leadership.
Gilbert has worked as a mental skills coach for the All Blacks, Canterbury Crusaders, the Silver Ferns and the Black Caps and strongly believes that players who are mentally prepared will perform better on the day. Gilbert is currently consulting with Chelsea Football club in the UK.
He has also worked as a highly skilled practitioner, working on performance enhancement for over thirty years with top CEO’s, businesses, and sporting elite.
Gilbert is philosophical in his approach to his own life and thrives on working with people who are in pursuit of excellence, consistency, and sustained performance over time.