For many Pasifika students, the move to intermediate school is a time of discovery and change. Thanks to youth development organisation Tula’i, the Inspiring Growth (IG) for Pasifika programme is helping young people turn that transition into an opportunity to grow as confident, resilient leaders.
‘Years 7 and 8 are when young people start shaping their identity, values and sense of belonging,’ explains Tula’i General Manager Tanya Zombos. ‘With the rise in youth crime and ram raids, this programme was designed as a positive, preventative initiative, giving Pasifika youth strong role models and culturally grounded leadership skills.’
Delivered across 14 West Auckland intermediate schools, including Te Atatū, Bruce McLaren, Henderson and Kelston, IG for Pasifika has already supported more than 300 students since its launch in 2022. Over the past year alone, 99 students from ten schools have taken part, and demand continues to grow.
The rangatahi participate in an inspiring mix of activities, including a combined school leadership summit, in-school small-group workshops, and a hands-on adventure experience that pushes their boundaries. Each element builds confidence and character, strengthening cultural identity.
The programme gives students practical tools for making positive choices. ‘It takes a village to raise a child,’ says Tanya. ‘We’re grateful for the support of our key partners, Tuilaepa Youth Mentoring Services, NZ Police, and Adventure Specialities Trust, who all play an essential role in helping us nurture our rangatahi.’ Family involvement is another cornerstone of success.
‘When parents engage in their children’s development, it reinforces positive behaviours at home and creates a ripple effect that strengthens the wider community,’ Tanya adds. Schools have already noticed a shift. Teachers report improved engagement and confidence, while parents say their children are communicating better, showing leadership at home, and feeling more connected to their culture.
One young participant summed it up best: ‘It was a great opportunity to help me grow as a young Pasifika.’ With recent funding of $20,000 from the Your West Support Fund, the charitable trust, Tula’i, can extend the programme’s reach even further. Projects like Inspiring Growth for Pasifika are proof of what’s possible when communities work together to build connected, thriving and resilient futures for young people in West Auckland. For more information, go to the Tula’i website.
You can also make a donation to support this fantastic programme.
