Rangatahi mai ki te rangatira
Our youth, our future
Employability Programmes
Our programmes help rangatahi aged 15-24 develop key employability skills needed to succeed in the workforce. Through a combination of interactive workshops and real-world work experience, rangatahi build confidence, practical skills, and a clearer pathway into employment.
The programme focuses on the seven essential employability skills that employers look for. Rangatahi take part in 18-20 hours of skill-building workshops, community service activities, and up to 80 hours of work experience with local businesses. This hands-on approach allows young people to learn in real environments while giving back to their community.
All of this takes place in a supportive environment, guided by a passionate team who are committed to helping every rangatahi succeed.
Road Ready Rangatahi Driving School
Our Learner Licence Programme helps rangatahi gain a strong understanding of the New Zealand Road Code and prepares them to sit their learner licence with confidence.
The Restricted Licence Programme includes regular, practical in-car training sessions with a volunteer mentor, along with test preparation and guidance.
We also provide ongoing support to help rangatahi progress toward achieving their Full Licence, opening up greater opportunities for employment, independence, and mobility.
The Youth Inspire Impact
Work Experience and Education
1497 Education and training placements
820 Work experience and volunteer placements
Employment
1559 Job interviews
993 Employment placements
Achievement data from 2014 - January 2025
Road Ready Rangatahi
845 Learner Licence passes (since 2019)
181 Restricted Licence passes (since 2019)
48 Full licence passes (since 2020)
“I felt supported because I was given the opportunity to work for a company that best suited me, and they listened to me and didn’t throw me in a job and forget about me”
- Former Rangatahi
Ngā whāinga / Our Objectives
Youth Inspire is committed to strengthening resilience building, improving wellbeing, and supporting work readiness for all Rangatahi we work with. We are driven by a whānau-centred approach that uplifts young people and helps them build positive pathways for their future.
Te Mahi Ngātahi
Working together through strong partnerships
We build strategic partnerships with businesses and organisations who share our commitment to supporting rangatahi. By working together, we continue to grow programmes and opportunities that help young people learn, develop confidence, and step into meaningful futures.
Te Whai I Ngā Kawa
Building trusted relationships
Trust sits at the heart of everything we do. We build strong, respectful relationships across our community, and rangatahi know they can rely on us to support them with integrity and genuine care for their wellbeing.
Te Pouwhirinaki Pūmau
Supporting rangatahi now and into the future
We support the changing needs of rangatahi through sustainable programmes that help young people gain skills, confidence, and pathways into meaningful employment.
Haumanutia Te Awakairangi
Strengthening wellbeing acrossTe Awakairangi (Lower Hutt)
We prioritise pastoral care, clear communication, and tailored support for every young person we work with. By meeting rangatahi where they are, we help build confidence and strengthen wellbeing across our community.
Kia Maia te Taiohi
Empowering rangatahi with hope and opportunity
We create positive change by offering a wide range of services for rangatahi, whānau, and the wider community. Together, we help build stronger futures for young people across Te Awakairangi.
Kaupapa / Purpose
Create a better Aotearoa for tomorrow’s workforce to thrive.
Ma Mihi / Vision
Youth Inspire is dedicated to creating meaningful pathways for our rangatahi aged 15 - 24, helping young people realise their potential through education, training, and meaningful employment opportunities.
We focus our efforts on hapori where youth unemployment is high, supporting rangatahi to overcome barriers and build brighter futures for themselves and their communities.
Based in Lower Hutt, Youth Inspire was founded in response to the urgent need to support young people into education, training, and employment. Since then, we’ve built strong relationships with community leaders, organisations, businesses, and government partners who work alongside us to create and expand opportunities for rangatahi to grow, succeed, and thrive.
Funding Partners
