Ara Taiohi

I started working with rangatahi around the same time as the Youth Development Strategy Aotearoa was developed, and have been a champion for youth development ever since, actively contributing to the youth sector now for more than 25 years. Youth development principles, including those of Mana Taiohi, continue to inform my own mahi, and underpin the supervision and support I provide to those working with rangatahi. My experience includes leadership roles in NGOs, iwi and government. Having managed a Youth One Stop Shop for eight years, then helping establish a new iwi-led Youth One Stop Shop, I have a particular interest and understanding in youth health and development services. I provide supervision and support for youth development practitioners from across a range of different professions, and those who lead multi-disciplinary teams. I am also experienced and interested in supporting those in advocacy roles, especially in relation to Oranga Tamariki and State care.