Leadership and community service drive Cadet of the Year

Governor’s Bay teenager Cadet Flight Sergeant Bradan Foster, who serves with No. 18 (Avon) Squadron, Air Training Corps in Christchurch, says the award came as a big surprise but it reflects what he inspires to be as a cadet and in future roles. 

The annual Cadet of the Year Award recognises the cadet who most exemplifies the NZCF core values of courage, commitment, comradeship, and integrity – the same as those of the NZDF. His citation notes his outstanding leadership, selfless service and unwavering embodiment of these values.

Since joining the NZCF in 2021, Cadet Flight Sergeant Foster has taken on high-pressure leadership roles, participates in all facets of squadron life - from ceremonial duties to fieldcraft exercises, and reinvests in the organisation by the mentoring of junior cadets.

His award citation says his integrity is the bedrock of his character; he maintains the highest professional standards, demonstrates profound self-discipline, and takes complete responsibility for his actions. He consistently builds comradeship, acting as a cohesive force within his teams by fostering an inclusive and empowering environment. 

The 17-year-old, who is in Year 13 at Cashmere High School, said he joined Air Training Corps because he always wanted to be a pilot.

“Now, I’m planning to do university and get my private pilot licence, then look at a career in the Air Force. There’s a lot of options out there at the moment, in aviation as a whole. But whatever I do, it will be about things that go in the sky.

“Cadet Forces has taught me about being able to adapt as plans change, the discipline to do things the right way, and people skills - being able to connect with people you meet for the first time. I’ve got a great network of friends around the country.

“And it’s having the ability to give back to the community and help those that come after you.”

As well as No. 18 Squadron’s community engagements – including the traditional cenotaph guard during Anzac Day services in Leeston - Cadet Flight Sergeant Foster’s community roles include being a Vice Patrol Captain and Search and Rescue trainee for Surf Life Saving New Zealand, a mentor at Youth Glide New Zealand, Omarama Gliding Club and his recognition as a young rangatahi with the 2025 Hiwa-i-te-Rangi Award at the Matariki Taonga Awards run by the Lyttelton Harbour Business Association. 

He would encourage others to join the Cadet Forces.

“It’s a great thing to do. It gives you so many skills that you need in today’s world. The ability to do public speaking and engage with different types of people. And then there’s all the fun activities – firearms training, bushcraft, and the flying courses.”

He enjoys the people side the most.

“Nothing works without the people. The volunteers who give their time, the cadets – they’re at the heart of it.”