Young people from Porirua were honoured this week for their leadership and creativity, as the Empowering Youth Voices programme concluded with a celebratory graduation event hosted by Voice of Aroha.
Held at the Voice of Aroha graduation night, the event marked the culmination of an eight-week journey where rangatahi developed skills in leadership, storytelling, podcasting, artificial intelligence, public speaking, and drama. Many of the participants came from diverse ethnic backgrounds and brought unique perspectives to the programme.
Deputy Mayor Kylie Wihapi, who attended the event alongside Onepoto ward councillor Geoff Hayward and other community leaders, praised the initiative for investing in youth. “Rangatahi are not just the future leaders; they’re already making a real difference in our city right now,” Wihapi said. “Their ideas and perspectives are super important for creating a vibrant and inclusive community.”
Voice of Aroha also celebrated a significant milestone, having recently won the Wellington Airport Regional Community Award in the Wellington City “Arts and Culture” category. The award recognises the organisation’s work in amplifying youth voices through creative media and storytelling.
The Empowering Youth Voices programme was designed not just to teach technical skills, but to build confidence and capability among Porirua’s next generation of leaders. With their stories now being heard more widely, many participants are expected to carry their experience into future roles within the community and beyond.
