The West Auckland Youth Development Trust (WAYDT) stands out for its unique approach to youth development. By combining the sport of boxing with the expertise of qualified youth workers, WAYDT is transforming young Westies into their best versions, enhancing their wellbeing and life skills.
Business Manager Cherie Brown declares, ‘We support young people to become kind and generous champions, inside and outside the ring.’
Operating out of Henderson’s West City Boxing, WAYDT works with around 200 rangatahi aged 9 to 18 each week, of whom 30% are young women.
Cherie says that boxing is a fantastic medium for teaching young people life skills like resilience, perseverance, and determination. It also helps them understand the importance of a strong work ethic, self-control, and how to manage their emotions. ‘Young people develop the skills and confidence to determine their own solutions to issues and achieve their aspirations,’ advises Cherie.
Many young people just enjoy taking part, while others are more serious. West City Boxing welcomes all, regardless.
WAYDT was founded in 2018 by youth worker and boxing enthusiast Matt Grey. He had previously run a popular boxing programme while working for Zeal Education Trust. And now, two of the boxers from those early days are involved in West City Boxing as coaches and mentors.
However, WAYDT’s mission goes beyond teaching boxing skills to young people. Cherie says the trust also supports the educational, social and physical development of West Auckland youth. ‘We use best-practice youth development to journey alongside young people, providing a safe place to belong and consistent relationship of care,’ she advises.
As a registered charity, WAYDT is committed to keeping its class fees affordable to ensure more young people can participate. However, the organisation is facing increasing financial challenges. Securing funding, especially for operational costs, is becoming more difficult.
The $10,000 funding from the Your West Support Fund has made a huge impact. WAYDT has used the money to pay for essential costs like rent, helping secure the financial future of this much-needed organisation.
‘We are extremely proud of all our young people,’ reports Cherie. Over the past year, many have become boxing regional representatives. And for the first time, one talented boxer was selected to attend an international tournament.
These achievements are fantastic. However, WAYDT’s greatest achievement is the growth in confidence and wellbeing of all the rangatahi involved.
