Tauranga teenagers are being asked to have their say in the development of a Tauranga Moana Youth Development Strategy. One workshop has been held and two more are scheduled. The next is tomorrow and the third on June 10. The Merivale Community Centre is facilitating the workshops and is looking for teenagers interestedin forming the leadership group that will develop the strategy. The workshops are an opportunity for youth to give their voice to programmes and activities planned for them in Tauranga. A Youth Development Strategy was first mooted at the Youth Violence Symposium in Te Puke in March, run by Relationship Services Whakawhanaungatanga. Merivale Community Centre is working with the Ministry of Youth Development to see local youth develop and run programmes, activities and events that meet their needs. Thursday's workshop is being held at the Te Puna Community Centre from 2pm-4pm. An overnight stay on June 10 at Poututerangi Marae in Te Puna, will let youth create a plan that will move the strategy forward. For more information, phone Merivale Community Centre on 578 6450. They can provide transport to and from the events.
