The Critical Role of Leaders in Effective Peer Support Programs
Tracks
Marquis Room - In Person Only
| Tuesday, March 3, 2026 |
| 11:10 AM - 11:30 AM |
| Marquis |
Overview
Ari Peach, Auckland University Of Technology
Details
Three Key Learnings:
Understand how leadership responses influence outcomes when challenges arise Recognise the levers leaders can use to support their teams, build trust, and demonstrate a commitment to wellbeing Understand the role leaders play in peer support programs, including championing the program, recognising staff needs, and connecting staff with peer supporters
Understand how leadership responses influence outcomes when challenges arise Recognise the levers leaders can use to support their teams, build trust, and demonstrate a commitment to wellbeing Understand the role leaders play in peer support programs, including championing the program, recognising staff needs, and connecting staff with peer supporters
Speaker
Ari Peach
Lecturer
Auckland University Of Technology
The Critical Role of Leaders in Effective Peer Support Programs
Presentation Overview
Drawing on his experience supporting frontline environments including emergency services, Ari shares insights from his work designing leadership and peer support programs that strengthen organisational wellbeing. The presentation highlights how leader training, involvement in program design, and visible commitment are essential to building sustainable systems of support. Practical steps are outlined for leaders to connect staff with peer supporters, back their people, and use their influence to enhance wellbeing on the frontline.
This presentation positions leadership not as an add-on to peer support initiatives, but as a fundamental driver of their success. Without active leadership, peer support programs risk being underutilised, misunderstood, or unsustainable. Leaders have the levers to create a culture where staff feel safe to reach out, to allocate resources that make peer support practical, and to model the behaviours that encourage openness and trust.
Ari will draw on current evidence as well as practical examples from emergency services, media organisations, and other high-pressure environments to show how leadership engagement directly impacts the reach and effectiveness of peer support.
This presentation positions leadership not as an add-on to peer support initiatives, but as a fundamental driver of their success. Without active leadership, peer support programs risk being underutilised, misunderstood, or unsustainable. Leaders have the levers to create a culture where staff feel safe to reach out, to allocate resources that make peer support practical, and to model the behaviours that encourage openness and trust.
Ari will draw on current evidence as well as practical examples from emergency services, media organisations, and other high-pressure environments to show how leadership engagement directly impacts the reach and effectiveness of peer support.
Biography
Ari Peach supports emergency services, media, and other high-pressure industries to build practical, effective support systems. He is a lecturer in paramedic mental health at the Auckland University of Technology, is the National Wellbeing Lead at Surf Life Saving New Zealand, and provides training and support through his business, Frontline Wellbeing.
