Porirua Youth Hub Research

Introduction:
This research proposal represents a groundbreaking initiative:
the first-ever rangatahi-led research project in Porirua. By placing rangatahi at the forefront of this process, we aim to create an empowering platform where they can share their lived experiences, insights, and ideas. This approach acknowledges that youth are not just beneficiaries of policies
and programnes but key contributors who possess invaluable knowledge about their own needs and the solutions that will work best for them.

The reasoning behind this initiative is twofold:
Addressing a Critical Gap in Understanding Despite numerous programmes and initiatives aimed at supporting youth in Porirua, there remains a lack of comprehensive, locally-driven research that
directly reflects the voices of rangatahi. The absence of such data makes it difficult for organisations, NGOs, councils, and policymakers to create truly effective and culturally responsive solutions. This research will fill that gap by identifying the interests, challenges, and aspirations of Porirua
youth.

Empowering Rangatahi as Changemakers This initiative seeks to challenge the traditional approach to research, which often views youth as passive subjects. By empowering rangatahi to lead the research, we are fostering leadership, agency, and confidence within our youth. This approach aligns with the Samoan proverb, “E fofō e le alamea le alamea” (Let the issues within the communities be resolved by
those in the communities), by ensuring the solutions to youth disengagement come directly from those most affected.

This research is not just a data-gathering exercise but a call to action to understand and address the root causes of youth disengagement. It will provide critical insights to inform and strengthen the efforts of organisations like ours, as well as those of local councils, MPs, and other stakeholders. The findings will enable us to co-create strategies and solutions that resonate with rangatahi, ensuring their voices are central to shaping their futures and fostering a community where all youth feel valued, supported, and empowered to thrive.