Tuia Programme youth attends first wananga

A great sense of belonging was the achievement felt by a North Canterbury youth after his first Wananga.

Jamie McMahon joined 40 other rangatahi last weekend from all over New Zealand, to attend the Tuia i Runga Wananga at the Mangatoatoa Marae, as part of the Tuia Programme 2022.

Earlier this year, Jamie was selected to be a part of this Programme which supports young Māori in leadership development throughout New Zealand.

Heading to the North Island to spend a weekend with strangers pushed Jamie out of his comfort zone, but nerves subsided soon after he arrived.

“I felt a great sense of belonging knowing that everyone was there for the same reason as I was. My nerves quickly turned to excitement for what was ahead.”

Jamie spent two days learning about the history of the Marae, Māori culture, past traditions and anthems, and connecting with likeminded youth.

“I have learnt so much about myself and my people, I don’t have the words to explain how much I valued the experience.”

Supported by the Mayors Taskforce for Jobs (MTFJ), the Tuia Programme involves Mayor Marie Black mentoring Jamie for 12 months to support him in his cultural, personal and leadership development.

Mayor Black was thrilled to hear about Jamie’s positive experience at the Wananga.

“I am extremely proud of Jamie and the progress he is making on the Programme, and I look forward seeing him continue making meaningful connections with rangatahi throughout the country.”