May 22, 2023
Rangatahi seek seat at table
The Mental Health and Wellbeing Commission says rangatahi know what they want – but lack faith that adults will listen.
A new report identifies a number of barriers to young people’s well-being including uncertain futures, racism and discrimination, social media and online harms, and whānau well-being.
Te Hiringa Mahara’s director Maori, Maraea Johns says rangatahi feel they have the answers, but what they need is the power to give effect to their own solutions.
“But to do that, rangatahi Maori and young people must have that seat at the table – at the decision-making table, so that they can take a leadership role in shaping their own futures. Koina te koroero mai ana ratou,” she says.
Maraea Johns says the Youth wellbeing insights report found rangatahi want to see: serious and measurable action on climate change, acceptance and celebration of diversity, the online world to be safe and supportive, and connection between whānau, culture and communities to be supported and fostered.
The report can be found here: