North Canterbury youth selected for Tuia Programme 2022

North Canterbury local Jamie McMahon has been selected by Hurunui’s Mayor Marie Black to be part of the Tuia Programme for 2022, which supports young Māori in leadership development throughout New Zealand.

The Tuia Programme, supported by the Mayors Taskforce for Jobs, involves Mayor Black mentoring Jamie for the next 12 months. This mentorship involves both formal and informal monthly catch-ups, to support Jamie in his cultural, personal and leadership development.

Mayor Black said this Programme helps young Māori to find their inspiration and strength and where this fits within their culture, and she is honoured to be providing Jamie with this opportunity.

“He is a lovely young man who will do very well in the Programme,” she said.

Jamie is excited about the Programme's prospects and the chance to learn alongside Mayor Black.

“I feel very privileged to be a part of the Tuia Programme and to have Mayor Black mentoring me through the process. I am very blessed.”

Jamie will be attending four wānanga over the course of 12 months with more than 100 other youth throughout the country, which are conferences based on strengthening leadership skills and networking.

“I’m really looking forward to connecting with other young like-minded Māori throughout New Zealand and developing those relationships,” said Jamie.

Part of the Programme includes taking part in a community project, an aspect Mayor Black is very passionate about.

“It is important to me that Jamie gets the most out of the project of his choice and enjoys himself. There are many lessons to be learnt from giving back to the community.”

Their first catch up has already taken place, with Jamie providing insight into his culture and what he is keen to achieve throughout the Programme.

“It was really good to chat with Mayor Black and have a one-on-one conversation. We talked about my family, my iwi, and my goals for the year.”

With a positive looking horizon, both are eager to see what this new experience will bring.

“This is the first time I have been part of the Tuia Programme, and I am very much looking forward to the journey ahead. It is a great investment in our young people,” said Mayor Black.