National Youth Council 2019 Retreat

  • VOYCE National Youth Council Retreat takes place in Hunua.

The second VOYCE National Youth Council workshop took place at the relaxing Chosen Valley Christian Camp in Hunua over September 14-15.

Some of the many incredible rangatahi led conversation topics included:

  • How to share our voices in front of Oranga Tamariki
  • How the VNYC want to represent ourselves as a team, and
  • What group participation looks like.

The korero of what the kaupapa looked like as the VOYCE National Youth Council (VNYC) began by sharing more of individual strengths and presenting these to one and other.

The (VNYC) also learned Ko Te Pito (a form of Māori meditation) for Te Wiki o te Reo Māori – to greet the day and warm up for mahi through stretching and acknowledging our ancestors and belonging.

A representative from Oranga Tamariki came in to have a conversation with the VNYC members on what they believe is needed for Oranga Tamariki to make the best youth-friendly resources.

The VNYC appreciated being included in partnership with this request from Oranga Tamariki, and are excited that they have already started to influence positive outcomes for tamariki and rangatahi in care.

Promise Three: Learning

Education as a gateway to dreams, rangatahi are supported to achieve aspirations.

Promise One: Care

Every tamaiti receives nurturing, protection, and provision, as any good parent would offer.

Promise Five: Voice

Tamariki and rangatahi are involved in decisions that affect them, and their voices are honoured.

Promise Four: Wellbeing

Timely, accessible, and culturally conscious health and mental health services are available to all taiohi.

Promise Two: Stability

Young people in care experience consistency, safety, and a sense of belonging.

Whānau care is where a child is being raised by someone in their whānau or extended family. Often it means a child living with their grandparents – but could also be another family member like an aunt, uncle or older sibling. Whāngai is the traditional Māori practice of whānau care.