By Sheldon Lawrence
A South Auckland community programme aims to encourage youth in the area by providing them with skills in leadership and education.
The programme, called “454”, was established in November 2006 by Joseph Collins and is run out of the Clendon Te Matariki Library & Recreation Centre, four days a week.
The programme is youth driven with the support of adult leaders, and is highly youth focused.
With weekly programmes, the occasional weekend trip and club camps, the aim of 454 is to enhance the support of young people in South Auckland; in regards to education, leadership training and employment, as well as teaching them about respect for themselves and others.
Lewis Looi, one of the leader’s involved in the 454 programme, joined the team to extend his passion towards helping kids achieve their dreams.
He says the young people who have got involved are “more motivated and respectful towards others but towards themselves too”.
Getting involved in just one of many youth support groups running in South Auckland has shown a positive outcome for the community.
The 454 programme is just one initiative that focuses on the diverse South Auckland community.
Mr Looi believes these programmes can ensure that youth receive the support they need and provide a pathway to voice their opinions.
Sheldon Lawrence is working with UNICEF as part of the 3Youth project, an upcoming section of the 3 News website focusing on social issues and written by young people.