Tae Whakamua – Reach Forward

Empowering the next generation

We’re committed to guiding and supporting young people to explore new career opportunities. Our program, Tāe Whakamua – Reach Forward, unites our efforts under a single initiative.

Our focus is on providing clear pathways and targeted support to youth, particularly in communities where such resources are scarce. Through partnerships with schools, universities, and employers, we’re paving the way for success for Māori and Pasifika youth.

This includes engaging school outreach initiatives, offering valuable scholarships, providing personalised mentoring, and facilitating enriching internship experiences. Committed to a comprehensive support system, we aim to empower young minds to excel in their chosen fields by offering diverse opportunities

Tae Whakamua – Reach Forward brings people together to make a difference in one person’s life

Many Māori and Pasifika youth in New Zealand miss out on STEM and other specialised career pathways. To address this gap, Project Plus, in collaboration with partner organisations, proudly introduces Tāe Whakamua – Reach Forward.

Tāe Whakamua – Reach Forward is a comprehensive program designed to support these talented individuals. Through scholarships, mentoring, internship opportunities, and school outreach programs, we aim to equip Māori and Pasifika youth for success in diverse fields, including STEM, government policy, and various medical roles such as nursing and becoming doctors.

Our initiative provides a clear framework and diverse pathways, ensuring that students from these communities have the tools they need to excel in their professional journeys.

Tae Whakamua operates on the following principles

Empowering Career Exploration: We are dedicated to encouraging Māori and Pasifika students to explore professional careers in diverse sectors such as STEM, government policy, and various medical roles such as nursing and becoming doctors.
Community Outreach: Our outreach efforts include visits to partnered educational institutions, presentations at schools by partner organisations, and inspiring talks by graduate participants at secondary schools.
Scholarship Selection Process: Students eligible for scholarship support are selected by their educational institution based on criteria agreed upon with our program, ensuring fairness and transparency.
Comprehensive Support for Students: We provide ongoing support to scholarship recipients throughout their study journey, ensuring they have the assistance they need to succeed. Whether it’s academic guidance, career counselling, or personal support, we are committed to empowering students to achieve their goals.
Market Insight and Support for Organisations: In addition to supporting students, we also assist organisations with data and market insights to enrich their understanding of industry trends, changes, and opportunities. By providing this support, we aim to foster stronger partnerships and enhance the overall impact of our program.
Internship Opportunities: Our recruiters offer paid internships with partner organisations, providing valuable hands-on experience for students.
Career Transition Support: Recruiters are committed to helping graduates secure roles with our agency’s clients upon completing their studies and internships, ensuring a seamless transition into the workforce.

Who should apply for the Programme:

Students enrolled or graduated from a Tertiary course in STEM, Public Policy, or Medical fields.
Businesses in the Public and Private sectors interested in presenting to schools.
Businesses in the Public and Private sectors interested in offering internships.
Secondary schools seeking organisations to present at career days.
Secondary schools with students who would benefit from scholarships.”

Your organisation’s partnership with us not only ensures a secure and locally trained talent pool but also fosters innovation through diverse perspectives and experiences. Additionally, by supporting young individuals who may not otherwise participate, you’re not just advancing broader government objectives but also investing in the future resilience and sustainability of your industry.

Furthermore, partnering with us showcases your commitment to corporate social responsibility, enhancing your organisation’s reputation and brand value. Our program fosters networking and collaboration with industry leaders, providing opportunities for valuable connections and partnerships. By investing in local talent development, your organisation contributes to the long-term growth and prosperity of New Zealand’s economy.

Every journey has a story

Kiana

Project Plus

Bachelor of Digital Technologies – MIT

Kiana has completed the New Zealand Certificate in Information Technology Essentials (Level 4) at Manukau Institute of Technology (MIT) and will now progress to a Bachelor of Digital Technologies (Level 7), specialising in Software and Web Development, also at MIT. Throughout her studies, Kiana discovered a strong interest in web development. She is particularly drawn to how websites are designed to meet user needs and support business growth with just a tap on the screen. Being part of the team behind the scenes is something she genuinely enjoys – from the building process and watching ideas come to life, to creating clean, simple, and user-friendly digital experiences.

Her journey has strengthened her discipline, resilience, and patience, reinforcing the belief that when you pour your heart into what you love, it not only shapes your skills but also helps you grow into the person you aspire to be.

Joseph

The Johnson Group

Public policy courses at Te Herenga Waka

Joseph O’Hara, a recipient of the Tae Whakamua scholarship, expresses sincere gratitude to the Johnson Group for the opportunity to pursue public policy courses at Te Herenga Waka. His journey into policy advice post-graduation has been unexpectedly fulfilling, driving him to envisage a long-term career in the field. With support from the scholarship, Joseph aims to enhance his skills and knowledge, envisioning a future where he can contribute as a senior policy advisor. He also advocates for diversity in the policy workforce, believing it leads to more innovative solutions for Aotearoa New Zealand.

Elisha

Asset Recruitment

Bachelors in Engineering – Mechatronics – Waikato University

Elisha’s journey from a tumultuous upbringing to pursuing excellence in tertiary education is nothing short of inspiring. Despite facing adversity, including homelessness and family challenges, he defied the odds with determination and resilience. With the support of Asset Recruitment’s Tae Whakamua Scholarship, Elisha is now thriving at the University of Waikato, studying towards a Bachelor of Engineering in Mechatronics. This initiative not only provides financial assistance but also offers invaluable mentorship and work experience opportunities, setting students like Elisha on a path toward professional success. Through his dedication and passion for automation and robotics, Elisha embodies the spirit of excellence that the scholarship aims to foster, symbolising hope and potential for the future of the Waikato region.

Sharmian

Elisha

Asset Recruitment

Bachelors in Engineering – Mechatronics – Waikato University

Pita

Project Plus

Bachelor Digital Technology (BDT) – Manukau Institute of Technology (MIT)

Pita, a proud New Zealand-born Pacific Islander hailing from Tonga, discovered his passion for service and community while serving in the military. Despite the daunting prospect of leaving the Navy to pursue further education, Pita remains resolute in his quest for personal and professional growth. As he navigates his dual roles as a reservist and a student, Pita’s dedication to serving others remains unwavering.

Samson

Healthwise Personnel

Bachelors of Health Science – Paramedicine – Auckland University of Technology (AUT)

Sam, a proud blend of Rotuman, Tongan, Fijian, and Irish heritage, is embarking on a journey of service and compassion as he pursues a Bachelor’s Degree in Paramedicine at AUT. Motivated by a desire to contribute to community well-being and inspired by his diverse family, Sam envisions a future where he can make a meaningful impact as a paramedic. With aspirations to overcome challenges and fulfil his potential, he expresses gratitude for the scholarship that enables him to pursue his studies independently, while striving to make his family proud.

Adirua

Healthwise Personnel

BSC Health Sciences – University of Otago

Adi, a bright student from Tonga and Fiji, excels academically and athletically while nurturing a profound commitment to family and community. With aspirations to pursue medicine at the University of Otago, Adirua aims to address the underrepresentation of Pacific Islanders in the healthcare sector. Through her selfless dedication to caring for her family and her unwavering determination to succeed, Adirua embodies the spirit of resilience and service.

Get in touch if you’d like to learn more about this this program and have a detailed discussion about partnering with Project Plus.

Tae Whakamua – Reach Forward

Empowering the next generation

Tae Whakamua – Reach Forward brings people together to make a difference in one person’s life

Tae Whakamua operates on the following principles

Who should apply for the Programme: