A recent celebration event brought together rangatahi, community partners and supporters to reflect on the impact of the Youth4Sure initiative and the projects it has supported across the Maungakiekie‑Tāmaki community.

Hosted by WAYFYNDERS, the event was an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of young people who have helped lead and shape Youth4Sure initiatives, while also acknowledging the organisations and partners who continue to support youth-led projects in the community.

Opening the event, WayFynders coordinator Gloria shared her appreciation for the people gathered in the room.

“I feel so privileged to be here with you all, because I know we’re all gathered here for rangatahi and kaupapa that involves uplifting our rangatahi. I want to acknowledge each and every one of you — our community partners, and especially our rangatahi here today.”

Members of the WAYFYNDERS Youth Executive also reflected on the variety of projects supported through Youth4Sure grants. Youth leader Sunipa highlighted how the initiative has helped create space for creativity and youth participation.

“It was really fun to see the groups in our area really thrive, especially with the carving we had at Te Oro, as well as the podcast making from Miss Shirley Academy.”

Speakers also acknowledged the ongoing challenges communities face when it comes to ensuring young people have meaningful opportunities to participate in decision-making.

Representing the Maungakiekie‑Tāmaki Local Board, Debbie Burrows spoke about the importance of creating environments where young people feel comfortable contributing their ideas.

“We often go out and ask young people what they want, but sometimes it can be difficult to deliver on that. Funding can be limited, and adult spaces aren’t always friendly or safe for young people to collaborate and be creative.”

Despite those challenges, Youth4Sure continues to demonstrate what is possible when communities invest in youth leadership and trust rangatahi to shape the initiatives that affect them.

The celebration also recognised the ongoing support of key partners including Foundation North, the Department of Internal Affairs, and the Maungakiekie‑Tāmaki Local Board, alongside community organisations such as Te Tūhononga ki Rāwhiti and Ruapōtaka Marae.

As the Youth4Sure programme continues to evolve, the focus remains on supporting rangatahi to lead, create and contribute to their communities in meaningful ways.

Applications for future Youth4Sure grants will open again soon, with more opportunities for young people across Maungakiekie-Tāmaki to bring their ideas to life.