We Welcome Taame Collier as Kaiarahi Rangatahi (Youth Leader)

The Katikati Community Led Development steering group has appointed Taame Collier as the Kaiarahi Rangatahi (Youth Leader) to engage with local youth and activate key initiatives needed for rangatahi in the Katikati community. Last year’s Your Place survey undertaken by Western Bay of Plenty District Council identified the community felt the lack of activities and facilities for local youth was one of the main issues facing Katikati. As a result, the Katikati Community Led Development steering group are focusing on youth during the remaining months of the collaborative agreement they have taken over with the Department of Internal Affairs for the community.

In his new role, Taame is engaging with community groups to reach as many young people in Katikati as possible and solicit their input. Taame has already been lending a helping hand with the Pancake Breakfasts organised by the Katikati Reach Out Trust at St Peters Church on Thursday mornings. "The breakfasts are an awesome initiative for our youth," says Taame. "They offer free pancakes and a place to hang out with friends before school. With over 200 kids attending every week, it's a popular place for our youth."

Last weekend, Taame served as the MC for the Winter Wellness and Immunisations Carnival at the Katikati Memorial Hall, organised by Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tamawhariua, inviting local rangatahi to share their feedback on making Katikati a better place to live for youth.

"I am excited to step into this role and be the voice of our rangatahi," says Taame, who attended both Katikati Primary and College Schools before graduating from Te Wharekura o Mauao in Bethlehem. During his time at Te Wharekura o Mauao, he explored kapa haka and performed at both regional and national festivals. During this time, he also began acting in live theatre with his school at the St James Theatre in Wellington, then in multiple productions with Tuatara Collective at Baycourt.

Taame will also form a rangatahi advocate group to help drive the changes local youth want in areas that are currently underserved in the community. "I am determined to ensure our ideas and thoughts are heard!" says Taame.

For more information or to have your say email  info@katikaticld.nz or text 021 02345 276.