Do you remember when you were a teenager and wanted a voice? I had the privilege of being part of a youth community that had a voice, but that was uncommon. I had the opportunity to explore opportunities, particularly in the field of education, to meet and spend time with wonderful people like the late Paulo Freire, considered by some as the 'father of critical pedagogy, and found that there was as much to learn from and in the community, than there was in my McGraw Hill tomes.
People sang "I believe the children are our future", while 'wise adults' told us that we were just children and we had to wait until we had grown up if we wanted to speak or play a part in the future of our world. I believe that most of us 'grownups' still have that teenage voice inside us, and that while we may have life experience, our thoughts and ideas in those days had merit and value, and may not have changed that much. It was an uncomfortable space for youth and adults. I mean, imagine 15-year-old Greta Thunberg telling adults they needed to take better care of our environment. Imagine a lot of young people just getting on with it in their own space.
What is happening here isn't political, it isn't a protest. It's not activism. It is a practical opportunity for youth to make a difference in their own lives, facilitated by our community organization. It's a safe place for youth to learn and explore, to develop skills, to communicate and appreciate diversity and to develop as people. Where will it lead? Well that's up to them, but they can count on our support.
Youth Says: A New Era Begins!
We are thrilled to announce the launch of our new youth initiative, WEST YOUTH SAYS!
On August 30th, we welcomed an amazing group of young people from West Auckland schools. Youth from Waitakere College, St Dominics, Massey High, Massey Primary and West Harbour Primary turned up to our first meeting.
What's “West Youth Says” about?
1. Empowering Youth Voices: Sharing your ideas and making a difference in your community.
2. Creating Positive Change: Working together to address local issues and build a better future.
3. Building Connections: Meeting new people and forming friendships.
And so much more......
Join us! We are always looking for new members aged 13-18. Come be a part of something special!
Monthly Meets but have Rangatahi Hubs on Fridays too just come see what we can do!
Contact Tua [email protected]