Learning new skills, securing casual and part-time work, increased work confidence and self-esteem, punctuality, time management and developing a strong work ethic; these are some of the positive outcomes students have experienced as being part of the Te Taiohitoa o Te Awe Young Champions programme.

Developed by the Te Awe Māori Business Network, a non-profit organisation with a strong local membership base of over 100 businesses (both Māori and non-Māori), the programme works to assist Māori rangatahi to achieve their goals and aspirations by providing them with mentoring in the workplace for up to six months. Te Puni Kōkiri provided funding support for the programme.

“The whakataukï, “Ehara taku toa i te toa takitahi, engari he toa takitini – My success should not be bestowed onto me alone, as it was not individual success but success of a collective,” explains Business Project Manager Mel Harrington “is a true reflection of the intent of this programme that brings together - taiohi, Māori business, whānau and the school community.”

Students getting real hands on experience in the workplace, as well as advice, support and guidance on their future career aspirations is central to the programme.

Rydges Hotel joined the mentoring programme in June taking on six students who rotate through the different divisions - food and beverage, kitchen, reception, conferencing, house-keeping, porter for one whole day each month. Kimi Whiting (Te Whānau a Apanui), Year 12 from Wellington East Girls’ College is currently placed with Rydges.

,“It’s a great experience. I have learnt that it is important to have a positive attitude and to put customers first”. Mentor Chad Johnston, Rooms Divisional Manager for Rydges Hotel says showing initiative and building your way up the ladder by being exposed to a wide variety of areas shows your commitment to the organisation and builds your reputation in the hospitality sector. “Work hard, respect your peers, get involved and want to be at work.”

In its second year of operation, the programme is currently working with 20 Year 11-13 Māori students from St Catherine’s, St Mary’s, Wellington College, Queen Margaret, Wellington East Girls’, and Wellington Girls’ secondary schools in the Wellington area.