Our Mission
Nick has left a truly extraordinary legacy, both personally and professionally. The infrastructure businesses he built in Asia still stand and thrive to this day, as do many of the businesses led by people he inspired and mentored. His energy, optimism and pioneering spirit lives on in the many individuals who continue to draw inspiration from Nick’s achievements, leadership, generosity and friendship.
“The Foundation’s mission is to fulfil dreams that will positively impact the development of the Asia-Pacific region by harnessing young people’s potential.”
Through access to education, mentorships, networks, unique opportunities and events the Foundation seeks to assist in the fulfilment of dreams that will positively impact the development of the Asia-Pacific region and enrich the lives of the people living in those communities. We want to inspire and empower future leaders to fulfil their dreams in the field of infrastructure and positively contribute to their local communities and future generations through the knowledge and experiences they gain through the Foundation.
As a society going through a rapid environmental awakening we owe it to our children to invest in the next generation of infrastructure leaders, many of whom will play an important role in shaping our economy, defining our climate outcomes and building a more sustainable planet.
“Our dream is to provide young people with a platform to launch their dreams and enrich the lives of their communities. We want young people to challenge themselves and challenge the world, all whilst experiencing new things, meeting new people and having adventures, just as Nick lived his life.”
In partnership with the University of Sydney, the Foundation has established the Nick van Gelder Dreamers Scholarship. The Scholarship provides opportunities and support to those in the Asia Pacific community who would otherwise not be able to follow their dreams in the field of infrastructure due to significant obstacles, such as lack of financial resources or access to education programs.
The Foundation’s long term objective is the establishment of an endowment which can fund full scholarships for successful applicants, as well as fund events that will bring communities together and enrich lives.
The Foundation launched in the 2022 academic year with two A$25,000 per annum scholarships and continues to expand each year.