Cashmere High School alumnus Cairo Akehurst (Class of 2025) took to the stage at the 2026 New Zealand Business Hall of Fame gala in Auckland last week.

Invited to speak as a Young Enterprise student ambassador, Cairo shared his entrepreneurial journey with an audience gathered to celebrate seven outstanding New Zealand business leaders.

His message highlighted the life-changing impact of mentorship—and how even a small investment of time, encouragement or an open door can change the course of a young person’s future.

The evening created a meaningful connection between those who have shaped Aotearoa’s business legacy and the next generation preparing to write their own.

What a fantastic opportunity, Cairo. We are incredibly proud to see where your entrepreneurial journey continues to take you.