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Department of Internal Affairs, Hastings
Forty youth workers from throughout central and lower North Island gathered at te Kura Kaupapa Maori o Ngati Kahungunu ki Heretaunga for the 'Strategies for Youth Workers Training Hui', from 18th – 20th November.
The Wellington Regional Youth Worker Trust coordinated and hosted the training, in partnership with the Department of Internal Affairs, Napier City Council, Hastings District Council and Te Kupenga Hauora Ahiriri.
The purpose of the hui was to strengthen skills and knowledge in areas of interest identified by youth workers during consultation earlier this year.
The response from those who attended the hui was overwhelmingly positive. Over the 2 1/2 days, valuable networks and friendships were formed.
Nine workshops were held, covering a variety of topics. These included:
John’s workshop shed light on the Code of Ethics, a guideline for the ethical responsibilities of youth workers, and some of the challenges associated with the development and implementation of the Code.
Rod’s workshop introduced models of facilitation, methods for engagement, and how we apply these in practice. The youth workers enjoyed participating in a number of creative games which they can now use in their own interaction with young people.
Justin opened our eyes to one of the many different influences that our young people are exposed to; namely corporate advertising and the messages about image, behaviour and ideals that come from this advertising.
Mereana Pitman presented an insightful overview of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and its’ historical context. Bringing the Te Tiriti into contemporary youth work, Mereana discussed the importance of a tikanga-based approach when working with young Maori.
This workshop provided an insight into the role of a Youth Aid Officer and the importance of effective relationships between Youth Aid Officers and youth workers.
John’s workshop provided valuable information on what the drug P is, the effects of P, how to tell if a person is using the drug and what actions should be taken when working with youth who are using the drug.
Megan Paish gave an insightful overview of the position of young people in the eyes of the law and the recent legislative changes relating to youth and the law.
Kate’s workshop covered effective funding approaches including the identification of generic requirements for funding applications, sources of current funding information and some ideas on how the navigate the funding minefield.
Rebecca used various games and activities in her workshop to demonstrate the of importance of effective youth worker networks and benefits that result from these networks.
The Strategies for Youth Workers steering committee would like to thank all those who attended and helped to organise the hui. Particular thanks to our fantastic facilitators, some of whom travelled a great distance to share their knowledge. It was a valuable and memorable weekend and we look forward to the next hui.
If you are interested in hosting a similar hui in your region, contact your local DIA advisor on 0800 824824, or if the lower North Island, contact your local Wellington Regional Youth Worker Trust representative.