The Tanetoa Program, offered by Te Awanui a Rua Charitable Trust, is focused on supporting and empowering Māori, Pacific, and other cultures in New Zealand. The program is designed to foster personal development, cultural pride, and leadership skills among participants, helping them navigate challenges and pursue growth opportunities.
Key Components of the Tanetoa Program:
Cultural Engagement:
The program emphasizes the importance of cultural identity, teaching participants about their heritage, traditions, and values. This cultural knowledge helps reinforce their sense of self and belonging.
Leadership Development:
Tanetoa focuses on developing leadership skills, empowering youth to take active community roles and instilling confidence to make positive changes.
Skill Building:
Workshops and activities promoting essential life skills are fundamental to the program. These may include communication skills, conflict resolution, critical thinking, and teamwork.
Self Well-Being:
An approach to well-being is central to Tanetoa, addressing academic success and mental and emotional health. Participants may engage in sessions focused on resilience, self-care, and mental health awareness.
Community Involvement:
Encouraging youth to participate in community projects and initiatives fosters a sense of responsibility and connection to their communities, helping them understand the impact of their actions.
Mentorship and Support:
Access to mentors who provide guidance, encouragement, and support throughout the program can significantly enhance the youth's experience and growth.
Networking Opportunities:
The program often facilitates connections with other young leaders and community organizations, broadening participants' networks and exposure to diverse perspectives. Participants in the Tanetoa Program typically emerge with enhanced confidence, improved interpersonal skills, and a stronger connection to their cultural identity, enabling them to become positive role models and leaders in their communities.
