The stellar leadership of Ōtara-Papatoetoe youth and their role in helping to shape local board decisions was celebrated at an awards dinner.
Driving civic involvement since 2015, the board’s Youth Council - the Ōtara-Papatoetoe Squad (TOPS) initiative, has become a pivotal element of the board’s work programme with allocated funding of $30,000 encouraging young people to engage actively in community life.
Ōtara-Papatoetoe Local Board chair Apulu Reece Autagavaia says, “We have an incredibly determined and passionate community of young people, who play a crucial role in driving local board planning and decision-making. The awards dinner is a great opportunity to connect, enjoy a meal, and mingle.
“This initiative shines a spotlight on their needs and empowers them to take charge of the issues they care about. Whether it’s participating in Anzac Day services or voicing their views on local matters, the programme fosters a network of engaged youth who are actively shaping their community.”
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 every school year, the local board awards local high schools with recognition and financial gifts. Each school picks their standout juniors to receive these awards. In the following year, these talented individuals, now seniors, are invited to join the TOPS Youth Council, where they can immerse themselves in youth activities, leadership programs, and the workings of local government.
“By empowering young people to shape local issues through engagement and connection, we’re creating a community where they feel a deep sense of ownership,” Apulu adds.
“This drive leads to heightened involvement in civic life, including voting and participating in community events.”
On the night
Each nominee received a Civic Services Award badge and a small gift. Last year’s recipients MC'd the night and presented awards with local board members. The families and teachers of the successful youngsters were also honoured.
The evening included a shared meal, a musical performance by a local student, and closing remarks from the local board chair. The event, marked by games, music, and celebration, is one of TOPS highlights, kicking off the journey for new members joining the TOPS whānau.
A key moment at the awards dinner was honouring the late Fa’anana Efeso Collins. The celebration was postponed mourning with the Collins aiga, who have been vital to TOPS since its inception.
TOPS Youth Mentor and Lead, Anastasia Matavao says, “We’re thankful for the local board's backing amid national funding cuts and look forward to more collaborations with youth groups.
“We pay tribute to Fa’anana Efeso Collins for his enduring influence on our youth council and honour the legacy of those who’ve laid our foundation. Thanks to the Collins aiga for their continued support, demonstrating our shared dedication to each other’s growth.”
Tribute for the late Fa’anana Efeso Collins.
Award winners
This year, there were 6 awardees
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Suvel Anand - Papatoetoe High School
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Ella Kwan-Him - Papatoetoe High School
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PJ Amituanai - Aorere College
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Sam Matua - Tangaroa College
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Tasiryah Vaine-Moera - Sir Edmund Hillary Collegiate
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Hibiscus Tipene - Sir Edmund Hillary Collegiate
Welcome and congratulations to all Awardees.
Chair Apulu Reece Autagavaia, local board member Albert Lim with awardee Tasiryah Vaine-Moera from Sir Edmund Hillary Collegiate.
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