Cain Kerehoma, lead of Tāiki e!, was acknowledged for his "outstanding leadership, innovative thinking and unwavering commitment to community development" at the Tauawhi Men's Centre celebration of its 15 years in Tairāwhiti.
Cain Kerehoma, lead of Tāiki e!, was acknowledged for his "outstanding leadership, innovative thinking and unwavering commitment to community development" at the Tauawhi Men's Centre celebration of its 15 years in Tairāwhiti.
The 15-year journey and kaupapa of Tauawhi Men’s Centre in Tairāwhiti was celebrated at an event called Whakanuia at Lawson Field Theatre last Friday.
Whakanuia brought together past and present staff, whānau, partners and supporters “in a night that honoured the journey so far and the many men who havewalked through Tauawhi’s doors,” a statement from Tauawhi said.
More than 100 people attended the event, which featured four panel discussions.
These included kōrero from past and present staff, reflections from previous Tairāwhiti Men of the Year recipients and “an inspiring look” at Tauawhi’s newest collaboration with Tāiki e!, Tāne Ora Tairāwhiti, led by Willis Tamatea.
“Tim Marshall, kaihautū of Tauawhi Charitable Trust, opened the evening with a heartfelt acknowledgement of the many hands and hearts that have contributed to Tauawhi’s kaupapa over the years,” the statement said.
Taking part in a panel discussion at the Tauawhi Men's Centre Whakanuia event at Lawson Field Theatre are (from left) Papa Rau Walker (Tauawhi kaumātua), Tim Marshall, Adrian Collier, Jeremy Muir and Mere Pohatu.
Marshall gave special recognition to Cain Kerehoma, lead of Tāiki e!, “for his outstanding leadership, innovative thinking and unwavering commitment to community development”.
“This whakanuia was really about honouring every man who has walked through our doors and all the whānau who stand beside them,” Marshall said.
“Fifteen years ago, we started with a simple idea born from tragedy; that men needed a place where they could be heard, supported and challenged to grow.
The men’s centre opened on July 2, 2010, and has grown from a small team to “a thriving collective of more than 20 kaimahi providing counselling, programmes, advocacy and support through Tauawhi, Te Hōkai Male Survivors, Men Against Violence and Safe Man Safe Family”.
“At Tauawhi, every man is welcomed, understood and empowered. The 15-year celebration was a testament to the enduring impact of this kaupapa in Tairāwhiti and a promise to keep moving forward, together.”
