Creating Lasting Impact Through Youth-Led Initiatives.
We engage, empower, and advocate for refugee youth through dedicated programmes and events across New Zealand. Discover how our initiatives foster leadership, build community, and create opportunities for young people to thrive across Aotearoa.
Where We Work
Our Refugee Youth Leadership Programme
Designed to empower refugee youth and equip them with the skills and knowledge necessary to take on leadership roles within their communities.
Key Development Areas:
- Leadership Skills Development: Communication, teamwork, decision-making, conflict resolution.
- Advocacy Training: Engage in policy discussions and youth rights.
- Community Projects: Youth-led solutions for education, mental health, and integration.
- Practical Learning: Workshops and real-world experience.
- Mentorship: Support from experienced leaders.
- Global Networking: Attend forums and events.
Programme Timeline
Year 1: Skill Building & Training
- Introduction & Icebreakers
- Leadership & Communication Training
- Advocacy Skills
- Project Planning Workshop
Year 2: Taking the Lead
- Project Implementation
- Mentorship & Feedback
- External Events & Conferences
- Capstone Presentation & Graduation
Event & Project Highlights
ImpacO Youth Development Programme
Levin has a growing community of Colombian and Venezuelan refugees aged 12-25. Facing isolation, mental health struggles, and discrimination, these young people expressed a need for a dedicated space to connect. ImpacO was born from this need.
Every Friday, at Te Whare Mahana - Levin Community Hub, we run the ImpacO programme. Led by refugee youth for refugee youth, it's a space to share, learn, and grow.
Since starting, we've seen a huge improvement in well-being, with local schools reporting that participants are more confident, engaged, and motivated. Many have transitioned to full-time work or higher education.
Focus Areas
- Mental & Physical Health
- Educational Development
- Creative & Fun
- Belonging & Integration
- Leadership & Activism
World Refugee Day
Each year on World Refugee Day, we celebrate the incredible resilience, creativity, and achievements of refugee youth in New Zealand. Our youth-led events are a chance to acknowledge challenges, highlight their strength, and promote inclusion.
Wellington Refugee Youth Day: We held the first-ever Refugee Youth Day celebration in Wellington, bringing youth together around the theme of Sense of Belonging, Identity, and Meaningful Participation. The event featured a panel where young leaders advocated directly to local decision-makers.
White Rabbit Red Rabbit Performance: This year, we brought this impactful theatre performance to Te Auaha. Acted out by five different refugee youth, it captured the complexities of life as a refugee and sparked deep conversations around identity and resilience.
Cultural Showcases & Art Exhibitions: Across other regions, refugee youth took part in cultural performances and art exhibitions, proudly sharing everything from traditional dance and music to modern reflections of their diverse backgrounds.
Key Events Include:
- Cultural Performances
- Art Exhibitions
- Community Gatherings
- Powerful Theatre Performances
Youth Week
Youth Week is a celebration of young people, with events organized by refugee youth across all resettlement locations. The week is focused on promoting community, belonging, and cultural pride through fun and engaging activities.
Activities Include:
- Sports & Team-Building Games
- Arts, Music & Dance Showcases
- Carnival Games & Talent Shows
- Leadership & Advocacy Workshops
Words from our Community
"It was an incredible feeling to lead and organise this event for my community. It showed me what I'm capable of."
- Youth Leader, Wellington
"I've gained more confidence in myself and learned new leadership skills that I can use in the future."
- Youth Participant, Palmerston North
"Youth Week was a powerful way to unite our refugee youth. I'm proud of what they accomplished."
- Community Partner, Nelson
Get Involved
Want to join our next event? There are plenty of ways to get involved, whether you're a young person wanting to participate, a leader eager to volunteer, or a supporter looking to make a difference.
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