New Youth Committee Paves the Way for Rangatahi Empowerment

Ebony Kalin, a passionate year 13 student from South Taranaki, is excited to announce the formation of EmpowerYouth, and is looking for young people across the district to join.

Working in collaboration with the South Taranaki District Council (STDC), Ebony says EmpowerYouth aims to create a platform for young people to express their opinions, collaborate on ideas, and actively contribute to the growth and development of their District.

“I’m passionate about providing youth with a means to make a meaningful impact and what better time to launch this committee than during Youth Week.”

“By engaging with the Council, EmpowerYouth seeks to empower young individuals to work together and effect positive change within their communities,” she says.

Under the guidance and support of STDC Community Services Group Manager Rob Haveswood and Councillor Racquel Cleaver-Pittams, Ebony has diligently worked towards establishing EmpowerYouth as a vehicle for youth engagement.

“EmpowerYouth is a testament to Ebony’s dedication and vision and her commitment to empowering South Taranaki youth,” Rob Haveswood said.

Comprising of 10-15 like-minded individuals, the committee aims to inspire and connect rangatahi throughout South Taranaki, encouraging them to speak up, voice their opinion, and contribute to the betterment of the district.

“The EmpowerYouth committee serves two primary purposes,” says Ebony. “Firstly, it acts as a youth voice for South Taranaki by establishing connections with secondary schools, sending submissions on council projects, surveys, and events, and advocating for the concerns and ideas raised by young people.”

“Secondly, EmpowerYouth strives to increase youth community engagement by organizing events, participating in community projects, supporting the South Taranaki District Council's community events, and working closely with schools,” she added.

Beyond benefiting the community and the district’s future, EmpowerYouth also offers numerous personal growth opportunities for its committee members. Serving as a leadership platform, the committee enables participants to enhance their skills, expand their horizons, and establish relationships with the Council, Community Boards, organizations, and other groups within the community.

“With the support of the South Taranaki District Council, EmpowerYouth will play a vital role in shaping a brighter future for the district, where young individuals are actively involved and contribute to their community’s growth. I am excited to see what we can achieve together.”

ENDS

How to apply – Interested youth leaders are asked to prepare a two-minute introduction video saying why they value their community and what youth voice means to them. Video along with name, contact number and preferred email address (not a school email address) can be sent to EmpowerYouthST@outlook.com before 31 May 2023.