Atarau Hamilton

Ngāti Kahungunu, Ngaa Rauru, Ngāti Raukawa, Ngai Tahu

Mana Tangata, Mana Whenua, Mana Wairua, Mana Tipuna

My experience across youth work, social services, and advocacy with government organisations has shaped the way I lead and support within our sector. I have been fortunate to contribute to services that supported rangatahi into employment and to develop initiatives that worked alongside whānau and rangatahi to make informed decisions throughout their journey within the system. 

In my current role, I support Ara Taiohi and kaimahi working with rangatahi across the motu, strengthening youth work and building capability, professionalism, and confidence in those working alongside our rangatahi.

Through a youth work lens, I understand the importance of relationships, participation, and empowering young people to influence decisions that affect their lives. My understanding of the sector alongside Te Tiriti and its connections across the wider ecosystem, grounded in whakapapa, whanaungatanga, and aroha, enables a strong, culturally responsive approach to ensuring the voices of rangatahi, and those working with them, are reflected in decision-making, engagement, and service delivery.