As part of our Puāwai programme, the rangatahi work on developing their strengths, understanding self, and understanding others. To wrap up the programme our rangatahi have been planning events/projects in response to something they are passionate about. This group have a passion for mental health, improving our system, and people having hope.

Activate Your Wellbeing is an evening event where we’ll hear from a panel of people about their work in the community as mental health advocates and wellbeing activators followed by a brief Q+A and some kai! We’re also excited to be partnering with ReFrame Wānanga to bring you a brief sample of their workshop – Foundations to Wellbeing. ReFrame Wānanga is an initiative empowering young people aged 13-24 across Waitaha/Canterbury to discover what supports their mental health and wellbeing.

Confirmed panelists:

• Josiah Tualamali’i
• Dame Sue Bagshaw

What is the Puāwai programme?

Puāwai is a nine-month experience for approximately 50 rangatahi/young people aged 15-18 that is designed to:

• Connect and develop a diverse network of “potential leaders, innovators, disruptors, drivers” in our rangatahi/young people around the region to enable them to contribute to their community
• Develop real skills, knowledge and networks by participating in a bicultural programme with a focus on diversity and inclusion

WHO – young people   

• There is no application process, rangatahi/young people are selected and supported to attend by a tuakana/youth group leader from their community.
• Small groups/rōpū of 4-5 rangatahi/young people from a range of Māori, Pasifika, rainbow, disability, care-experienced and Muslim communities.