At Zeal, we see rangatahi as creative, resilient and full of potential. Across our youth centres, work-readiness programmes give young people the chance to grow real-world skills, build confidence and strengthen their sense of belonging. From barista training and live sound to event management and creative arts, each programme helps rangatahi take the next steps in education, training or employment — in environments where they are accepted, encouraged and celebrated.
Delivered over 10–15 weeks, these programmes blend hands-on learning with mentoring and goal-setting. Rangatahi don’t just gain practical tools for the workplace — they discover more about who they are and what they can achieve, alongside peers and tutors who believe in them.
Walking alongside rangatahi
Many young people tell us that the education system hasn’t always worked for them, or that life circumstances have made learning feel out of reach. Confidence with things like numeracy or literacy can take time to rebuild, and safe spaces for connection are sometimes hard to find. But every day, we see rangatahi showing up with courage, creativity and determination.
Our role at Zeal is to walk alongside young people as they discover their strengths. That might look like hands-on activities that rebuild maths confidence, spaces that foster belonging and friendships, or guidance in writing a first CV. By blending practical skills with mentoring and encouragement, we help rangatahi uncover the mana that has always been within them.
Neil’s story
Neil first connected with Zeal through our drop-in space, a place where he enjoyed spending time with friends. From early on, it was clear he had a sharp memory and strong leadership potential, but school didn’t always feel like the right fit. When Neil joined our barista work-readiness programme through his alternative education school, his strengths shone.
With his incredible recall, Neil became the go-to person for classmates who had missed a session, walking them through everything from coffee shot timings to fun facts about beans. As he shared his knowledge, his confidence grew. Soon, he wasn’t just thriving behind the coffee machine — he was building leadership skills, encouraging others and setting himself new goals.
Neil completed the course ahead of schedule and went on to be accepted into a local trades academy to continue his training. His perseverance, generosity and growth mindset show what rangatahi can achieve when they’re given the right environment to flourish. We’re proud to have been part of his journey — and excited to see what comes next.
Thank you to our funders
Our mahi is made possible thanks to partners who believe in the potential of rangatahi:
Ministry of Youth Development – Ākonga Youth Development Community Fund
Supporting targeted, high-impact programmes that reconnect rangatahi with education, training and employment.
Simplicity Foundation
Helping expand employability programmes across Aotearoa and reach more young people with opportunities to grow.
