AUT Coaching and Leadership connects rangatahi leaders across West Auckland

More than 50 rangatahi from across West Auckland gathered at AUT recently for a day of learning, leadership and connection, discovering new pathways into sport while building the confidence and skills to make a difference in their communities.

Delivered in partnership between Tuia Waitākere and AUT, the Coaching and Leadership Day brought together students and school sport staff from Avondale College, Waitākere College, Te Kura Kaupapa Māori o Hoani Waititi, St Dominic's Catholic College and Massey High School.

Selected by their teachers for their existing leadership in sport and physical education or their leadership potential, the rangatahi spent the day exploring future study and career opportunities, developing practical coaching skills, hearing from inspiring leaders and connecting with students from other schools.

Tuia Waitākere Youth Sport Advisor Jemma Palmer says the day was about helping rangatahi recognise the opportunities available to them while building their confidence as future leaders.

"We wanted rangatahi to leave knowing there are so many pathways into sport, recreation and health beyond being a professional athlete. More importantly, we wanted them to back themselves, build new connections and realise the leadership qualities they already have. Watching students from different schools encourage one another and grow in confidence throughout the day was incredibly rewarding."

The programme began with an introduction to AUT's sport, recreation and health study options, providing students an insight into the diverse careers available across the industry. Students then took part in interactive coaching workshops, rotating through activities that challenged them to work collaboratively, think creatively about movement and develop leadership and decision-making skills.

While the students were learning, school sport staff participated in a professional development session led by Kylie Thompson, Senior Lecturer and Head of Department at AUT's School of Sport and Recreation. The session explored how schools can better engage inactive rangatahi in sport and physical activity. Waitākere College's David Hough also shared his experiences leading the Active As initiative, highlighting both the successes and lessons learned along the way.

Former Canadian Rugby Captain and AUT lecturer Kelly McCallum inspired students during a mindset session before AUT student leader Ioanna Corrie brought everyone together for an energetic team activity.

The day concluded with a guest panel hosted by Jemma, where Law Student Ioanna and basketballer Michael Ropotini shared their own journeys through study and sport, encouraging rangatahi to embrace opportunities, step outside their comfort zones and have confidence in themselves.

The impact of the day was reflected in the feedback from the students.

"I really enjoyed the mix of activities; from getting active, socialising with students from other schools, listening to a lecturer and learning from the panel. Thank you so much for today, I really enjoyed it," says Vichelle.  "I really enjoyed the practical sessions and hearing from students with life experience. Great experience," added Leroy.

For Alicia, the day’s learning delivered much more than leadership alone. "I enjoyed learning more about how to be a leader but most importantly learning about myself and how to be a better version of myself."

GM Community Sport and Recreation at Tuia Waitākere, Antionette Aalbers, says the success of the day reflected the shared commitment between Tuia Waitākere and AUT to invest in young people and strengthen communities.

"Our role is to help build capability, strengthen leadership and support community-led initiatives so people have what they need to thrive now and into the future. Strong leadership is at the heart of strong communities, and this partnership with AUT helps bring that vision to life.” she explains.

The Coaching and Leadership Day reflects Tuia Waitākere's belief in the power of community to uplift, support and grow together. By investing in rangatahi leadership today, Tuia Waitākere and AUT are helping build stronger, more connected communities for the future.