Outstanding young leaders from Ōtara-Papatoetoe have been honoured at an award ceremony, celebrating their contributions to local decision-making and community initiatives.
Since 2015, the Ōtara-Papatoetoe Youth Council, or Ōtara-Papatoetoe Squad, known as TOPS, has been driving positive change in the community.
What started as a small initiative has grown into a key part of the board’s work programme, empowering youth to shape their neighbourhoods. With $30,000 in local board funding, the TOPS programme encourages youth involvement in decision-making, events, and initiatives that impact their local area.
INSPIRE
Ōtara-Papatoetoe Local Board chair Apulu Reece Autagavaia says, “Empowering local communities, especially our young people, to actively contribute to the planning and decision-making process not only strengthens their leadership skills but also fosters a sense of ownership and connection to civic life. We hear from them regularly in our board workshops, and the door is always open to their input.
“By encouraging their involvement, we nurture the next generation of leaders who will shape the future, promote wellbeing, and ensure the sustainability of local governance for years to come.”
Ōtara-Papatoete local board members in attendance: chair Apulu Reece Autagavaia, deputy chair Vi Hausia, members Albert Lim, Topou Folau and Li’amainaia Lorenzo Kaisara. Image: TOPS.
The recent awards ceremony was a festive occasion, featuring nominations from five out of six local schools.
What are the Civic Awards?
At the end of each school year, the Ōtara-Papatoetoe Local Board recognises standout juniors from local high schools with awards and monetary contributions. The following year, these students, now seniors, are invited to join the TOP Squad (TOPS) Youth Council, engaging in youth activities, leadership programs, and local government.
“When it’s youth-led, you can be sure there will be greater engagement, stronger connections, and real empowerment. TOPS did an amazing job with the awards earlier this month – we all had a fantastic time and truly enjoyed ourselves. This board is deeply proud to support TOPS and these awards,” adds Apulu.
Local board member Albert Lim (left) keeping up with the youth in an entertaining moment during the awards dinner.
On the night
Feeling blue never looked so good!
A key moment at the event was honouring the late Fa'anānā Efeso Collins, a passionate supporter of South Auckland youth, with his wife, Fia, in attendance.
Community Programme Delivery South Specialist Advisor for Youth, Emma Helmich says, “A well-presented evening for our future leaders. TOPS put on an engaging evening where not only did they pay homage to community leaders, those that have passed and those that had made an impact on their lives but also filled it with laughter and comedy. This marks the beginning of another exciting year ahead with mentors and new and emerging talented young people from the community to engage the community.”
Award winners
Five awardees will join TOPS
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Lilliene Mahe (Aorere College)
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Jzyah Strickland & Hinalagi Pue (Tangaroa College)
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Ata Raveora & Aaliyah Alofaifo (Papatoetoe High School)
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Stephaniya Parekura-Tekapo & Xavier Tasi (Sir Edmund Hillary Collegiate)
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James Fidow (De La Salle College)
2025 youth awardees. Images from TOPS.
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