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A regional Māori economic development organisation has launched a plan to create 40,000 new jobs in the greater Bay of Plenty by 2050.
Toi Kai Rawa Trust chief executive Awhina Ngātuere says Māori businesses make up a third of the regional economy, and 44 percent of Māori fall into the youthful age category.
She says the trust will work with other regional business organisations to upskill Māori youth into better-paying jobs, and boost Māori business growth.
“It is heavily in the primary sector. However it’s really about when we’re looking at our demographics, and our youthful population. If we invest in our rangatahi now. that is how we’re going to unlock the prosperity of our region,” she says.
The five-year plan also involves empowering Māori in science, technology, engineering, arts and maths, as well as training, mentorship, scholarships and help with accessing funding for individuals and businesses.
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