Building connections, celebrating culture, and creating inclusive spaces. Our community programs and youth-led events empower individuals to thrive and build meaningful relationships.
Building bridges between refugee youth and their communities through inclusive programs and initiatives. We foster connections that combat isolation and build a sense of belonging.
Safe spaces in each resettlement location where refugee youth can gather, learn, and connect with peers and mentors.
Celebrating diverse backgrounds through food, music, art, and storytelling that brings communities together.
Creating connections that combat loneliness and build a sense of belonging for refugee youth.
Fostering understanding and appreciation of diverse cultures within New Zealand communities.
Building inclusive communities where everyone can contribute and feel valued.
Connecting refugee youth across locations to share experiences and provide mutual support.
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.
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.
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.
"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
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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