The list goes on
Off the back of massive growth in 2020, we ramped up our programmes again by running:
- Barista
- Hip Hop
- Photography
- Hauora Project – where young people learn about resilience, self-management, self-esteem, communication and more
- Mahi Toi
- Fitness and Sport
- Music Production
Photo credit: @shzee_photography
A quick recap of the year
In term 2 our Photography students absolutely crushed it, displaying their pieces at Puke Ariki Museum in the “This is our world” exhibit (view press release here). Term 2 holidays saw a record overall attendance of 380 at Hip Hop workshops headlined by our own Jari Jacobs at Centre City Shopping Centre. Term 3 was another step up as we welcomed the Wellbeing programme, “Hauora Project”. By the end of term, all members felt their confidence, self-esteem, knowledge and sense of belonging had grown significantly.
Term 4 was our biggest term yet. With six programmes being delivered at Zeal Taranaki! Even with COVID-19 Alert Level 2 restrictions, we kicked off Mahi Toi, Fitness and Music Production and were able to deliver empowering, inclusive, dedicated, and transformative programmes to our young people whilst operating safely under restrictions.
Adapting to lockdown
During lockdown at the end of Term 3, we took all programmes into the digital realm. Google Classrooms were created where young people learned and connected with their peers and programme leaders. We met weekly so we could adapt quickly, and as a result, we now have pumping online and offline programme delivery.
From the first day I started going, I have grown exponentially. I don't know where I would be personally. The people and opportunity give me purpose, they help activate my full potential.
Feedback is increasingly telling us that our rangatahi are getting more than a sense of belonging, connection and identity. They are finding purpose, and a feeling that they are part of something bigger - Zeal Taranaki is whanau.
Hopes for next year
The future looks awesomely bright. We have some exciting opportunities on the horizon for 2022, we almost need a bigger building!
Special thanks
To New Plymouth District Council, Toi Foundation, Tū Manawa Active Aotearoa, Ngā wāhi Auaha Creative Spaces Fund, MYD Ākonga Youth Development Community Fund, Ministry of Education and Creative Communities Scheme New Plymouth. Because of your help, we were able to achieve and support more young people through Zeal Taranaki 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!
