After months of planning and preparation, the first PAYRISE cohort officially began their journey through the WAYFYNDERS youth development system.

This group represents the start of a new pathway for rangatahi stepping into real-world work experience, enterprise learning, and hands-on opportunities designed to build confidence, capability, and future career options.

Delivered through the WAYFYNDERS platform, PAYRISE connects young people with meaningful projects, mentorship, and practical learning environments where they can earn while they learn and develop skills that translate directly into the workplace.

Launching this first cohort marks an important step in building a system that supports youth to rise through experience, responsibility, and real opportunity.