Thanks to the innovative Te Karanga Trust, rangatahi in The West now have a creative outlet. The registered charity aims to make a positive difference in young people’s lives through social and creative initiatives in a safe, welcoming space.
Set up in 2004, Te Karanga Trust operates Auckland-wide but has a strong base in Henderson with its Navigators West programme.
Navigators West is a weekly creative youth development programme that brings together young people aged 15-24 from across The West. Will Mark-Brown, Youth Worker and CEO, says the initiative combines several elements in a uniquely powerful way. Sessions start with a guided group discussion on topics close to young people’s hearts, such as current affairs, bullying, addiction, or social inclusion.
Young people are then encouraged to explore the topic through music, visual arts, poetry, rap or whatever art form works for them. To help make this happen, rangatahi have access to recording equipment and other creative tools and mentorship. The sessions are guided by registered youth workers who are technically skilled. Furthermore, local well-known music celebrities such as Melodownz, Elijah Manü (Church & AP), Poetik and Aidan Fine often drop in to help, adding a new dimension.
‘As a young person, hearing someone they idolise talk about personal challenges can be a strong catalyst for healing or self-discovery,’ advises Will.
‘We’ve found that combining storytelling, discussion, and creativity breaks down barriers and creates belonging and connection among participants,’ explains Will. He adds that young people feel heard and seen within a safe, welcoming space.
There’s also a lot of cross-fertilisation going on as rangatahi check out what other Navigator groups are doing across Auckland.
There’s no doubt that Te Karanga’s work has a massive impact. Destry (aka Dez Rydah) is just one of many young people to benefit. ‘Before Te Karanga Trust, I was in a really bad place. They gave me a space where I could be me and express myself creatively without being judged,’ says Destry.
Like many others involved at the trust, he is now a qualified youth development worker. Will says most current staff members started as participants before becoming certified and qualified. ‘It’s part of our DNA,’ says Will.
A $20,000 grant from the 2024 Your West Support Fund has contributed to the costs of the innovative programme in The West. Will says the support came at a crucial time and has gone towards the wages of the staff members who keep the show on the road.
The Navigator West programme partners with Zeal West at 25 Alderman Drive, Henderson, on Tuesdays from 7 to 10 pm. Why not drop in or check out the website for more information.
