Lets get together and celebrate Youth Week

from My Voice, May 2021

by Northern Advocate

My Voice: Macee Latimer

“WE’RESTRONGERTOGETHER”

Let’s get together and celebrate Youth Week

By Shannan Wong, Youth Week Director

We’re stronger together when we amplify young people and acknowledge their capacity to contribute to community!

Youth Week 2021 (held8-16 May) creates space for young people to design, develop and deliver ways to uplift theirwellbeing and that of their whānau and communities. Ara Taiohi (the peak bodyfor youthdevelopment) is the kaitiaki (caretaker) of Youth Week (held8-16 May),anannual festivalofevents where we asa nation are able to celebrate our young people, their strengths, talents and resilience.

This year’s theme, “We’re Stronger Together!”, chosen by young people, reflectsa commitment tothe wellbeing of all of Aotearoa, and the important role young people play in this. In collaboration from CCSDisability Action and Deaf Aotearoa the theme reflects the commitment to ensure that all young people are able to engage with Youth Week.

“Wehave been overwhelmed and inspired by the diverse communities that are eager to amplify young people, their capacitytocontribute and offer spaces of celebration” says Shannan Wong, Director of Youth Week.

Ara Taiohi received over 80 applications from young people and communityorganisations across Aotearoa. Local events in Te Tai Tokerau, Northland include an inclusive and adaptable day of sport run by Parafed North anda free Youth community event including panels hosted by Whangarei Youth Space.

Traditionally Youth Week is celebrated with in person events and gatherings; last year due to the Level4 rāhuithis wasunable to happen. This year in person gatherings and events are back and will be better than ever!

Additionally, to createa physical representation of the theme the Youth Week team are asking your young people to contribute to theirfirst ever nationwide paper weaving craft project. You can find out more and get involved by heading overto:youthweek.org.nz.