For a quarter-century, Partners Porirua has been changing the lives of thousands of rangatahi by providing steppingstones for the future they aspire to.

General Manager Salā Henry Samia says the 25-year milestone is a time for reflecting on those who have come through the doors.

“We’ve walked alongside rangatahi through their tough times, through their successes and helped them achieve their goals. There’s nothing like it when someone passes their driver’s licence, finds a job, follows their passion for learning, becomes the best parent they can be, or starts to rebuild relationships with their family and community.”

Former Executive Director of 20+ years, Michelle Robinson says Partners Porirua is now helping over 1000 young people a year – a far cry from its origins back in the year 2000.

“Back then we were a one-man-band, me! We started from humble beginning with a mandate to connect schools with businesses and a focus on IT literacy. Now the organisation is integral to the fabric of Porirua,” says Mrs Robinson.

Porirua Mayor, Anita Baker, says Partners Porirua work has been transformative for the community and holds immense promise for the future of Porirua.

“Many rangatahi in Porirua face significant barriers hindering their transition into adulthood. Families are grappling with financial insecurity making the costs of obtaining a driver’s licence or pursuing higher education or other advancement unattainable. Partners Porirua has been a beacon of hope in addressing those barriers,” says Mayor Baker.

Reverend Fepai Kolia of the Samoan Methodist Church of Samoan (Porirua Parish), says that in addition to the usual challenges facing young people, the youth in his Parish also speak English as their second language. “Partners Porirua has stepped up to help with these issues and given these young people the tools they need to move forward in life.”

He says access to the Partners Porirua Drive 4 Life programme has made it easier for young people to get jobs, and that mentoring has also been a big help, giving young people guidance and confidence as they figure out their path in life.

Partners Porirua has also made an impact in the youth justice arena. Vicky Tofilau, Service Manager, Porirua District Court says Partners Porirua provides a vital lifeline to rangatahi appearing in court due to driving offences, often stemming from their inability to obtain a driver’s licence.

“The work they do lays the foundation for long-term success and contributes to reducing recidivism.”