Youth council gains $5000 award to grow future leaders

Nikki Kaye

Ruapehu Youth Council is one of four nationwide to receive a $5000 grant to go towards getting young people involved in leadership, volunteering and mentoring.

Youth Minister Nikki Kaye made the announcement last week as part of a $65,000 round of funding to support youth development opportunities.

She said the Ruapehu Youth Council's nomination stood out, and the funding would help it in leadership, volunteering and mentoring opportunities.

"Councils are at the forefront of ensuring that young people have an active voice in local decision-making, and many support local youth councils to develop and implement local initiatives for their peers," Ms Kaye said.

"We now have a new direction for youth development in New Zealand which is about increasing the number of youth development opportunities, particularly for those from disadvantaged backgrounds, as well as developing greater cohesion between the Government, and business and philanthropic sectors to create these opportunities."

Ruapehu District Council youth liaison Samantha Arthur-Curtis said it was fantastic for the work the youth council had been doing to be acknowledged.

"The RYC can make the $5000 go a long way and it will make a big difference to our ability and options for working with and developing Ruapehu youth," she said.

Ms Arthur-Curtis said the Youth Ambassador role was not a token gesture and they had the capability to effect real change for their communities and peers.

Meanwhile, there are four vacancies for youth ambassadors in the Waimarino-Waiouru area.

Applicants must be prepared to attend one paid meeting per month, organise and take part in youth development programmes and attend national events.

Applications can be made before Friday, July 15 at ruapehudc.govt.nz or by picking up a form at the Raetihi or Ohakune offices or Ruapehu High School administration.