The Ministry of Pacific Island Affairs Youth Conference - Jon Riki

In June this year I co-facilitated The Ministry of Pacific Island Affairs Youth Conference for young people in Auckland held at The Auckland Council Youth Centre RYZ in Wesley. Over 300 young people where in attendance representing schools and community groups. I had the privilege of setting the tone for the day by running icebreaker activities for all the young people; this was a challenge with the biggest group activities I have ever had to run but I was proud of my effort. The Aim of the conference was to strengthen the Pacific voice across Auckland and connect the young people to their representative who are part of The Ministry of Pacific Island Affairs. This was achieved through guest speakers and break out sessions to keep the young people engaged and participating. All up it was a good experience and I definitely feel that I have improved in larger group facilitation. I also believe the young people who attended left inspired and empower about their identity as a Pacific young person. Jon Riki – Youth Worker