Supporting young people to be successful and confident in the face of adversity is a daily job for the staff at Youth Inspire – and is something they’ll be better able to provide for the most at-risk rangatahi, thanks to new government funding and a partnership with the Hutt Valley Chamber of Commerce.

Kānoa – the regional economic development and investment unit that sits within the Ministry of Business and Innovation – have granted Youth Inspire access to the He Poutama Rangatahi (HPR) funding. This funding stream is dedicated to supporting programmes that improve employment and educational outcomes for rangatahi most at risk of long-term unemployment.

“With this funding, we will deliver a targeted Youth Inspire programme called ‘Inspiring Youth Futures’, says Youth Inspire General Manager, Ali Black.

“As well as the employability and driver license training that form the core of our programmes, Inspiring Youth Futures will tailor a pathway plan, work with whānau and, crucially, provide ongoing pastoral care to help these young people become engaged in meaningful education, training or employment”, says Ms Black.

The Hutt Valley Chamber of Commerce will provide crucial support by connecting businesses to the programme. The Chamber will help ensure there will be work experience placements, site visits, and direct employment opportunities for the rangatahi.

Helen Down, CEO of the Hutt Valley Chamber of Commerce says, “Our business community is largely made up of local people who are very keen to support our local young people into local careers. We work with businesses every day helping them to give young people new career opportunities. We are delighted to work alongside Youth Inspire on such an innovative and much needed programme.”

Ms Black is confident this partnership will bring benefits to youth and the region, both socially and economically.

The intensive support Inspiring Youth Futures will be able to provide is unique for our region, and has the potential to change the lives of our rangatahi who deserve better than the hand they’ve been dealt. We’re excited to start work on this project with the Chamber and their business partners.