Learning from the Mayor
Twenty-one-year old Arlin Wikaira has taken a bold step to enrich his future. He is the first participant within the Waimate District to join the Mayoral facilitated Tuia programme which aims to develop the leadership of young Māori in communities across New Zealand.
Tuia means ‘to lace together’. The programme promotes collaboration with three strands of learning – mentoring, wānanga and contribution – to grow positive impact within communities.
For the remainder of this year, Arlin will receive mentorship from the Mayor and Deputy Mayor to encourage and enhance his leadership skills, develop his knowledge of public service and provide opportunities for presenting his learnings to others.
“I’m excited to be part of the programme,” says Arlin. “I’ve been living in the district for 17 years and want to get more involved at a community level. I’m also keen to increase my connection with my culture and find out about where I whakapapa back to.”
Four marae-based wānanga, held throughout the year, bring together participants from across the country, along with Tuia alumni. This is where they can deepen their understanding of te ao Māori (Māori world view including cultural knowledge and practices), share learnings from the programme, practise their presentation skills, and connect.
“This is a great opportunity for Arlin,” says the Mayor. “I’m delighted to have a rangatahi take up the position and hope it will spark interest in the programme and clear a pathway for others.”
Arlin says one of his favourite things about living in the district is the rural aspect and connection with nature, so it is fitting that his community contribution will be a conservation project in Willowbridge.
As to his future, he is currently working at an assistant manager level in retail and wants to build himself up to management level. Public speaking is a particular area of focus and he’s sure to get lots of practise as he shares his experience in the programme with others.
There will be cross-generational learnings too.
“It is an opportunity to deepen our relationship with a younger generation,” says the Mayor. “We look forward to seeing Arlin’s leadership skills grow and the outcomes of his community involvement.”
