What’s gone down this year
Even with the challenges of COVID-19 and lockdown, we’ve been able to support young people through over 350 programme sessions so far this year. We ran two and a half terms of creative programmes, including three Hip Hop groups, Event Management, Art Design, Live Sound, Vocal, Drum and Guitar lessons. It was epic and we’re so proud of the growth we’ve seen from our young people. Prior to lockdowns we were running nine different in-school dance, music and adventure based learning programmes in addition to our in-centre creative programmes. We were so humbled to be asked by our local community to offer these programmes and get to work with such amazing young people
2000’s nostalgia at our Gateway event
Before lockdown restrictions, our Gateway students were able to run a 2000’s themed event called ‘Tuckshop Sessions’. It was 100% youth lead and involved young performers. It was an awesome night and a result of the hard work and dedication of several different programme groups coming together to make something special. To our Gateway students, we are so proud of you for kicking off this event series, which brings West Auckland young creators together. We also think Jadyn’s photos look mean!
Photo credit: Jadyn.Tauranga
A highlight this year has been seeing the music students come out of their shell more, having moments like, “wow, where did that voice come from”. Students will often come in shy and leave feeling more confident in themselves. It's amazing to hear how many beautiful singing voices young people have. Massive thanks to Gibz the music tutor. He creates safe, inclusive and fun spaces for students, it's really powerful to watch.
They make it an open and fun space. The way they tackle problems makes you feel at ease and like they genuinely want to help and wont judge you.
Hopes for term 4 and 2022
Term 4 programmes have re-started at Zeal West with previous students returning from term 3 and enrolments opening for new students in 2022. Term 4 is a small 4-week term that is respecting alert level restrictions. Whitney Pa’u-Tuitasi has joined the Zeal West team in the role of Programme Coordinator with a particular focus on growing our in-school programming.
Special thank you
To Auckland Council, Sky City Auckland Community Trust, Creative Communities Scheme
Auckland, Joyce Fisher Charitable Trust, The Trusts Community Foundation, Ngā wāhi Auaha Creative Spaces Fund and Foundation North for the support provided to Zeal West during 2021. Because of your help, we were able to support more young people through Zeal West programmes.
Want to get amongst?
If you are keen to get involved, or know someone who would benefit from these programmes, hit us up below!
