About Rikki-Lee Julian
Welcome to José, and the heart of The Elevate Collective. This is where our journey of empowerment begins, grounded in a decade of experience and a deep commitment to the Central North Island community.

Her Journey: From Global Operations to Local Impact
The path to founding José: The Elevate Collective is paved with a diverse and rigorous professional history. For over a decade, Rikki-Lee has navigated the complexities of international logistics, HR, and operations management, honing her skills in environments that demand absolute precision and strategic thinking. This corporate rigor is complemented by the invaluable "Street Smarts" she acquired in front-of-house hospitality, where understanding people and anticipating needs are paramount.
Rikki-Lee’s creative edge, developed through boutique styling and her passion for the performing arts, adds a unique dimension to her approach to problem-solving and professional presentation. Her connection to the Central North Island runs deep, particularly through her work with the Tūwharetoa Settlement Trust Board, where she has been involved in Whakapapa verification and community advocacy. This cultural grounding informs her entire approach to empowerment, ensuring that The Elevate Collective’s services are both effective and deeply respectful.

The Elevate Collective: Cultivating Confidence and Purpose
At José, and specifically within The Elevate Collective, we believe that true potential is unlocked through a holistic approach. Rikki-Lee's background in the performing arts, community work, and psychology profoundly influences our methods:
- Performing Arts teaches presence, articulation, and confidence—essential tools for any professional setting.
- Community Work grounds our practice in advocacy, heritage, and the cultural protocols, ensuring every individual feels seen and supported.
- Psychology provides the essential insights into motivation, behaviour, and personal growth that drive long-term transformation.
We focus on equipping youth and women in Taupō and surrounding districts with the confidence, articulation, and "street smarts" needed to thrive in today’s economic landscape. By blending corporate rigor with a heart for community advocacy, we go beyond technical skills to build the foundational strengths that make our participants truly stand out.
Our Vision for the Central North Island
We envision a Central North Island where every young person and woman has the opportunity to achieve their full potential. The Elevate Collective aims to be a catalyst for this change, fostering a community where confidence, purpose, and employability are accessible to all. Through our tailored "Success Products," including high-stakes Interview Laboratories, practical Digital Edge (AI Mastery) training, and holistic Presence & Protocol coaching, we are dedicated to making participants the most sought-after individuals in the professional arena.