Voices added to National Youth Council

  • The collective voice of the National Youth Council just got a little louder.

The collective voice of the National Youth Council just got a little louder.

VOYCE – Whakarongo Mai and its National Youth Council welcomed new members recently, with five young people joining the council. The new members hail from around Aotearoa.

Chair Renee Porter believes the new members will add immense value to the team and will encourage robust conversation about key aspects relating to tamariki and rangatahi atawhai.

“We had a fantastic day on Saturday! We welcomed new council members in a beautiful whakatau at the VOYCE Hub in Auckland,’’ she said.

The day included a mihi whakatau which was followed by the council meeting where items discussed included building the terms of reference, identifying key areas to discuss with Minister Tracey Martin and the VOYCE journey.

“It’s a great feeling to see our National Youth Council grow and to have people with diverse backgrounds and experiences join our team. The many different experiences bring a range of perspectives.’’

Renee added that a highlight of the day was seeing whānau, friends and support staff attend.

“A big thank you to their whānau and friends who came to support the new members to the VOYCE Youth Council. I look forward to the new and exciting ideas they have to bring.’’

If you have any questions or need more information around the National Youth Council, please contact Kaiarahi Tuhono Carolyn Taueki-Stott on Carolyn.stott@voyce.org.nz.

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.