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Te Ao Taiohi With young people we explore Te Ao, understanding their holistic world and the dynamics that impact this. Te Ao Taiohi is impacted by big picture influences such as social and economic contexts and dominant cultural values. It includes Te Tiriti o Waitangi, the effects of colonisation in Aotearoa, local, national and international legislation and policy that impacts young people.  Awareness of Te Ao Taiohi ensures actions are not judged purely on the surface, but with an understanding of systemic influences that affect young people.  Young people are supported to engage with the dynamics in their changing world. Mana Taiohi with JJ and Arohauni To Ao: Afghanistan to Aotearoa: A Journey from Guild to Gratitude In this expert from Kaiparahuarahi (Vol.1, No.2), Bilal Nasier explores the concept of Te Ao. Read Kaiparahuarahi Kōrero Cafe: Bilal & Te Ao Te Ao and the Code of Ethics 10. Ngā Tikanga | Rights and Responsiblities 11. Ā-Ipurangi | Youth Work Online 12. Mana Taurite | Equity 13. Mata Huhua | Diversity Explore Mana Taiohi Click on the images below to explore each principle and see relevant resources.

Our Membership Members are a core component of our peak body mahi, and help to shape the work Ara Taiohi does for the wider youth development community. As a Member, you will connect with hundreds of other members who share your heart for young people; together, we can continue to grow our influence for the benefit of all taiohi. Meet our Current Members Membership Structure Personal Members Ara Taiohi Personal membership is open to anyone who works with young people in a way that supports their positive youth development, or who works in the ecosystem of youth development that makes positive change for rangatahi. What are the benefits of membership? -Discounts on Ara Taiohi resources -Discounts on hui, events and conferences (such as INVOLVE) -Access to our regular e-newsletters and other communications -Voting and speaking rights at the Ara Taiohi AGM and Special General Meetings, and the option to be nominated to the Ara Taiohi Board. -Preferential application to our annual Youth Week grants scheme -Early access to Ara Taiohi trainings -The opportunity to inform and influence how we advocate for issues affecting rangatahi, the youth development sector and its workforce But more importantly, you would be joining our collective commitment to the investment into the taiohi of Aotearoa, and into the growth of this community. The greatest benefit you can get from joining Ara Taiohi is what you put in… so become a members and let us know how you’d like to get involved. What are the expectations of Members? Upon joining, Personal Members are asked to sign their commitment to upholding Mana Taiohi – the principles of youth development, and the Code of Ethics for Youth Work. Members of the public can raise complaints about Ara Taiohi Members; if a Member were found to be in breach of Mana Taiohi or the Code of Ethics, then their membership could be revoked. Members are expected to pay an annual membership fee, which aligns with our financial year beginning 1 July. In years where Ara Taiohi can offer the option to opt out of fees, it is expected that members communicate in writing that they wish to take up this option. What is the cost? There is no application fee, but Members are charged an annual fee. This is dependent on your employment status. Waged (i.e. in paid employment): $80 +GST Unwaged (i.e. volunteers and students): $40 +GST Note: Annual renewal date is 1 July for membership fees. Members who join during the year pay a percentage according to a pro-rated payment system until they are aligned with the renewal date. In some years, Ara Taiohi may be able to offer the option to opt out of fees. Where this is offered, Personal Members need to indicate they are taking up this offer. Group Members Any organisation with an interest in the work of Ara Taiohi can become a Group Member. We especially encourage youth organisations or teams with a youth focus in their work to join. What are the benefits of membership? As a Group Member, any of your staff and volunteers are able to access the direct benefits included in membership: -Discounts on Ara Taiohi resources -Discounts on hui, events and conferences (such as INVOLVE) -Access to our regular e-newsletters and other communications -Voting and speaking rights at the Ara Taiohi AGM and Special General Meetings, and the option to be nominated to the Ara Taiohi Board. -Preferential application to our annual Youth Week grants scheme -Early access to Ara Taiohi trainings -The opportunity to inform and influence how we advocate for issues affecting rangatahi, the youth development sector and its workforce But more importantly, you would be joining our collective commitment to the investment into the taiohi of Aotearoa, and into the growth of this community. The greatest benefit you can get from joining Ara Taiohi is what you put in… so become a members and let us know how you’d like to get involved. What are the expectations of Members? Upon joining, Group Members are asked to sign their commitment to upholding Mana Taiohi – the principles of youth development, and the Code of Ethics for Youth Work. Members of the public can raise complaints about Ara Taiohi Members; if a Member were found to be in breach of Mana Taiohi or the Code of Ethics, then their membership could be revoked. Group Members are expected to pay an annual membership fee, which aligns with our financial year beginning 1 July. In years where Ara Taiohi can offer the option to opt out of fees, it is expected that members communicate in writing that they wish to take up this option. A Primary Contact is required as the main point of contact for your Group Membership. This person will receive our emails about your membership, keep your organisation details updated and be able to vote on behalf of your organisation at our AGM. If the person designated as your Primary Contact were to leave the organisation, you would be required to provide a new Primary Contact. What is the cost? There is no application fee, but Members are charged an annual fee. This is dependent on the number of people in your organisation working with rangatahi: -Tiny: (1-2 FTE working directly with young people) $100 +GST -Small: (3-7 FTE working directly with young people) $165 +GST -Medium: (8-17 FTE working directly with young people) $385 +GST -Large: (18+ FTE working directly with young people) $550 +GST Note: Annual renewal date is 1 July for membership fees. Members who join during the year pay a percentage according to a pro-rated payment system until they are aligned with the renewal date. How can I connect if I don't want to be a Member? If you aren’t ready or aren’t interested in joining Ara Taiohi as a Member, then we’d still love to connect with you! The best way to do this is to join our mailing list so you can keep updated with our news. Join Mailing List Personal Members Joining Ara Taiohi as a Personal Member connects you with a national network of youth workers and provides access to professional development, resources, and collective advocacy. Apply Group Members Becoming a Group Member of Ara Taiohi strengthens your organisation’s connection to the youth development sector and offers tailored support, sector updates, and opportunities to influence positive change together. Apply Korowai Tupu Korowai Tupu is the Professional Association for Youth Work in Aotearoa. It is dedicated to supporting you in your professional identity whilst setting standards of best practice and accountability. Korowai Tupu also advocates for the profession of Youth Work and its workforce. Apply

Annual Reports There is so much to celebrate and be inspired by in the youth development sector. Click the links below to read about our amazing kaimahi, rōpū, and members' achievements. 2024 - 2025 Report Our 2024–2025 Annual Report is out now - celebrating a year of connection, growth, and impact in the youth development sector. 2024 2023 2022 2021 2020 2019

Mana Taiohi - Youth Development Principles Mana Taiohi is a principle-based framework that informs a way to work with young people in Aotearoa. It has evolved from the youth development principles previously expressed in the Youth Development Strategy of Aotearoa. The Mana Taiohi framework is informed by: The framework centres around the concept of mana. Mana is the authority we inherit at birth which can be affected by our choices and actions. It emphasises the right of a young person, to know about this, and to have agency in their lives and the decisions that impact them. Honouring the mana of young people involves celebrating their identities, and acknowledging their realities. It supports them to find their voice, work to their strengths, and step into leadership. Mana is an overarching principle of the framework and the following eight principles are in two sequential sections; Firstly, the mana young people have, and Secondly, how a youth development approach can whakamana young people. Whakamana in this context means to empower, encourage and affirm. Click on the images below to explore each principle and see relevant resources. Learn more about mana Honouring the mana of young people in Aotearoa Mauri (o te taiohi) we acknowledge the mauri, the inherent life spark and potential of young people, by supporting the development of their identity. Whakapapa (taiohi) with young people we understand and affirm their whakapapa, exploring how genealogies and heritage connect to their sense of identity and belonging. Hononga (taiohi) with young people we understand hononga, identity and strengthen connections . Te Ao (taiohi) with young people we explore te ao, understanding their holistic world and the dynamics that impact this. How youth development can whakamana young people Whanaungatanga with young people we prioritise whanaungatanga, taking time to build and sustain meaningful and trusting relationships . Manaakitanga with young people we uphold and extend manaakitanga, through reciprocal respect and care. Whai Wāhitanga Whai wāhitanga recognises young people as valued contributors to society, creating space for participation, agency and responsiblity . Mātauranga with young people, we are empowered by rich and diverse mātauranga, that encompasses good knowledge, wisdom and understanding . Learn More Mana Taiohi Whakapapa Mana Taiohi Resources Mana Taiohi Training

< Back Talei Bryant Mana Taiohi Facilitator I have been involved in youth development and youth work since 2018 since attending festival for the future Where I was inspired to start my own youth-led organisation called the Find Your Fish Movement. The aim of this movement is to help young people dive deep into ko wai au and find their passion and turn it into their profession. Over the years I have worked in numerous roles relating to rangatahi development. In 2023 I was the Campaign Lead for Youth Week and absolutely loved being able to work with Rangatahi across the motu and see all the amazing events that were happening. I currently work at Whakatane High School as the Attendance Coordinator Where my team and I cover the 20 schools in our regions. I have been facilitating Mana Taiohi workshops since 2020 and have loved meeting different people from different spaces who all want to support and uplift rangatahi. My facilitator style is full of energy, laughs and making sure everyone is engaged and understands the content. I like to do this wananga style and by doing activities that involve group work, skits and some really cool activities. I love that I get to share Mana Taiohi with the world! talei.bryant@whs.co.nz

Korowai Tupu Application If you believe your work with young people and your ability to advocate for them would be enhanced by having your professional identity recognised, then applying for Korowai Tupu membership is for you. Korowai Tupu - Registration of Interest This form is for anyone interested in finding our more information about becoming a Korowai Tupu member. Once completed one of our team will contact you. First name* Last name* Email* Phone* Organisation Have you completed (or are you in the process of completing) any of the following qualifications? Diploma of Youth Work (Te Pukenga/ WelTec) Bachelor of Youth Development (Te Pukenga/ WelTec) Bachelor in Youth and Community Leadership (University of Canterbury) Although anyone can apply to Korowai Tupu, there is a tailored application process for students and graduates from these courses. Have you any particular questions about becoming a Korowai Tupu member? Submit

Training Facilitator Database Russell Hockley Code of Ethics/ Mana Taiohi Facilitator I enjoy facilitating because it allows me to walk alongside taiohi and their whānau as they explore their potential. Through whakawhanaungatanga, collaborative learning, and mana-affirming practice, we grow together as a whānau. Read More Te Maungarongo Maarie Mareikura-Ellery Mana Taiohi Facilitator What's good e te iwi? I’m Maarie, a proud young Māori wāhine who has lots of aroha for rangatahi and hauora. Read More Talei Bryant Mana Taiohi Facilitator I have been facilitating Mana Taiohi workshops since 2020 and have loved meeting different people from different spaces who all want to support and uplift rangatahi. Read More Matt Renata Code of Ethics/ Mana Taiohi Facilitator My life's been transformed by the aroha of those who cared, so my purpose in life is to do that for others, especially our younger generations… live to love, love to live. Read More Sarah Finlay-Robinson Mana Taiohi Facilitator Kia ora! I am a creative and interactive trainer whose unique skill set translates theory and evidence to strengthen youth development practice and increase impact in your context Read More Tayla Taylor Code of Ethics/ Mana Taiohi Facilitator I'm incredibly passionate about building the professionalisation, capacity, and credibility of our youth sector and see the understanding of and upskilling in Mana Taiohi and Code of Ethics as a huge part of that. Read More Zara Maslin Code of Ethics Facilitator Zara's Code of Ethics trainings are a perfect collision of her worlds and experience. She loves to bring theory into real-life scenarios and empower youth workers to do what they do best: build quality relationships with young people. Read More Lloyd (Doc) Martin Code of Ethics Facilitator Learning comes out of exploring and reflecting on our experiences together. My approach to facilitation is grounded in my practice as a youth worker and a teacher in alternative education (AE) in Porirua for many years. Read More

Youth Week Grants Before you jump in, please take a moment to read through the whole form so you’ve got everything you need. If you need any support at any stage, reach out on (04) 802 5000 or youthweek@arataiohi.org.nz . Dayna is always happy to kōrero and help with any pātai. A few key things to note Applications close Sunday 15 March, 5pm. You will be notified by April 12th on the outcome of your application. Grants are up to $1,000 + GST. Keep answers clear and concise to support our youth grants panel to assess your application. Make sure you read our Terms and Conditions. Each year, Youth Week grants are oversubscribed. This means we can’t fund every application and may not be able to fund the full amount you have asked for. Please take your time to understand how our panel of youth assessors will consider your application. Our youth panel brings their own lived experience and expertise to the final assessment. Make sure your application clearly shows us how your idea lines up with the following criteria: Youth-Led: clearly show how your event was led by young people, from ideation to delivery to evaluation. Connection to the 2026 theme: show how your event reflects or celebrates the theme: “Taringa whakarongo! Ki te reo o ngā taiohi – Our voices matter! We deserve to be heard.” Equity lens: We want to distribute funds fairly across Aotearoa. Our youth assessors will consider accessibility, regional representation and how your event uplifts or provides space for taiohi who are often underserved or underrepresented.  You and your organisation do not have be a membership of Ara Taiohi, however members do receive a small additional weighting as part of our commitment to recognising and strengthening the youth development sector. Apply Here Terms & Conditions You must fulfil each of these to be a successful applicant. I understand that funding will only be provided to legally registered organisations, not individuals. If your organisation submits more than one application, the maximum total we can allocate to that organisation is $1,000 + GST. Please check internally if there are multiple applications, as this may affect the outcome. Applications from a branch of a national organisations that has multiple branches will be treated as an individual organisation (for example the Wellington branch and the Christchurch branch of a national organisation can each apply for $1,000 +GST). I understand that grants are up to $1,000 + GST, i.e. if you are GST registered and request $1,000, your invoice will be $1,000 + GST, totalling $1,150. My event must be held during Youth Week 2026: 18-24 May, 2026. My event will be alcohol, smoke and drug-free. If my event is a public event, I will post it on the Ara Taiohi website on the Youth Week events schedule. I will share/tag my event with Ara Taiohi on Facebook and Instagram unless my event is a completely private event. I will include the Youth Week logo or theme image on promotional material. A payment and agreement form must be completed with details of who will receive the funds for my event. This must be provided alongside your invoice for payment. I will complete an evaluation form outlining how the Youth Week event went. This must be completed and returned to Ara Taiohi by 15 June 2026. I will distribute a participant survey to young people engaged in my event (Ara Taiohi will supply a link closer to the time).  I will distribute an engagement survey to young people directly involved in planning, decision-making, and/or delivering the funded event (Ara Taiohi will supply a link closer to the time). Privacy Statement We collect your information for the purpose of assessing your Youth Week application and contacting you about the grant. We will share organisation name and contact email and event details with our funders, for the purposes of supporting announcements and visits during Youth Week 2026. If anything sits outside of this, we will request permission before doing so.

Lucy Smith Intern She/Her After years of working alongside youth workers and being introduced to the sector through leadership and development opportunities, I started studying towards my bachelor of youth development degree. I am a huge advocate for youth voice and the change that young people can make in our world! Get in touch to discuss Youth Week lucy.smith@arataiohi.org.nz

Our Partnerships We work in partnership with youth development organisations and community groups across Aotearoa to create opportunities for both youth workers and rangatahi. Through collaboration, we strengthen the sector, share expertise, and support initiatives that help young people to thrive Te Ngākau Kahukura Held in partnership with rainbow communities, Te Ngākau Kahukura is a rainbow-led initiative that works for an Aotearoa where rainbow people grow up feeling safe, valued and like they belong in the places where they live, learn and access healthcare and social support. Pou Pasifika Held in partnership with Ola Le Ola AotearoaPou Pasifika is a national Pasifika-led initiative in Aotearoa co-designed by and for Pasifika youth development workers and practitioners. It champions their identity and expertise, strengthens their wellbeing, supports professional practice through a Pasifika lens, and connects them locally and nationally so that young Pasifika can flourish.

< Back MOSAIC Our MOSAIC resources support youth workers to hold safe, meaningful kōrero with rangatahi about racism, discrimination, and values, These resources aim to empower youth workers and young people to foster empathy, understanding, and peaceful dialogue. Our mission is to create a more inclusive society where all rangatahi feel a sense of belonging and are equipped to navigate conversations around prejudice and racism with courage and compassion. Download Resources Previous Next

Cimone Grayson Kaiwhakahaere Ngā Kaihoe Kia ora! I whanau mai ahau i te Whanganui a Tara No Wairoa ahau Ko Ngāti Kahungunu ki Wairoa, Rongowhakaata, Ruapani, Tūhoe me Ngāti Porou ōku iwi Ko Grayson tōku whānau Ko Cimone tōku ingoa. I stumbled upon Community-Led Development work some years ago (with a focus on youth) and it’s the most purposeful mahi that I’ve ever done. Our whānau is top of the tree in all that we do, our kids enjoy a free range existence in Wairarapa, exploring rivers, parks and independence. Get in touch to discuss All things Ngā Kaihoe and supporting your Māori kaimahi Contact cimone.grayson@arataiohi.org.nz