A life changing experience for Hurunui Youth

Hurunui youngsters feel empowered after spending a weekend with ‘The Social Experiment’ team.

The Hurunui Youth Programme received $10,000 from the Ministry of Youth Development to fund the participation of local youth in 'The Social Experiment' alongside others from Waimakariri District and Auckland region.

The Social Experiment is a weekend of personal development and innovative thinking, intending to provoke change in youth through challenging conversations about personal experiences and limitations, peer support, team building and critical thinking around topical youth related issues such as mental health.

Social Experiment Facilitator Amal Abdullahi thoroughly enjoyed guiding the group through what she described as a whirlwind 48 hours.

“Moving, inspiring and eye-opening are a few words I would use to describe last weekend. It was a privilege to lead a great group of rangatahi through some life-changing insights.”

Hurunui Youth Council’s Deputy Chair Laura Cundy highly recommends the experience.

“It was nerve-wracking at the beginning; I didn’t quite know what to expect. I ended up leaving with newfound confidence and determination to create change within myself and my community.”

Youth Development Officer Ward Shearman is grateful to The Social Experiment team and the Ministry of Youth Development for continuing to make this opportunity available to Hurunui youth.

“The team was very professional and great to work with, I feel privileged to have spent the weekend with such an inspiring group of people.”