Kaiwhirimuka - Youth Cultural Lead (National)

About the Company Real is the youth brand of Pathways, dedicated to supporting young individuals with acute mental health needs. Our mission is centered around the spirit of 'loving life,' and we strive to help our taiohi realize this aspiration. We provide health and wellbeing services in collaboration with local community supports, assisting youth aged 12 to 25 in developing essential life skills and fostering strong connections with their schools, employers, whānau, and friends. About the Role We are seeking a Kaiwhirimuka, a role that embodies the essence of nurturing and sustaining our youth community. The term Kaiwhirimuka reflects the vital support provided to the Harakeke plant, allowing it to thrive. We are looking for a dynamic, youth-oriented leader who can unite the young people of Aotearoa in a manner that is unapologetically Māori and authentically Real. This position is more than just a job; it is a calling to amplify the voices and brilliance of our rangatahi on a national stage. This role operates from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday, with some travel required across Aotearoa, New Zealand. Requirements We are looking for candidates who: - Possess a youthful spirit and thrive in engaging with young people. - Can effortlessly connect with youth while also navigating high-level leadership discussions. - Have the skills to bring various kaupapa (initiatives) to life in diverse settings, including online platforms, community spaces, and public forums. - Are adept at balancing heart-led approaches with strategic thinking. - Understand the political landscape and the issues affecting tangata whenua, and are willing to advocate for what is important. - Demonstrate agility and adaptability in our ever-changing world. As our Kaiwhirimuka, you will: - Provide leadership and guidance within Real, ensuring our work aligns with the goals of enhancing engagement with Māori and their whānau. - Create a national youth vibe that uplifts, connects, and activates. - Foster relationships between taiohi, organizations, and decision-makers as the primary point of contact. - Ensure that youth voices are represented and heard in significant discussions and decision-making forums. - Contribute to systemic change while making a grassroots impact. - Bring your authentic self, culture, and creativity to the work. What You'll Bring to the Role In this position, you will work closely with our Child and Youth Director within a supportive environment that values manaaki, whanaungatanga, and the brilliance of Māori youth. We are committed to your growth as a leader, empowering you to shape the future of youth development across Aotearoa. You should possess: - A strong understanding and application of Te Ao Māori and Tikanga in relation to working with Māori youth. - High competency in Te Reo Māori me ona tikanga. - The ability to enhance capability in working with Māori youth and their whānau. - Excellent verbal and written communication and presentation skills. - Experience working within a mainstream environment. - The ability to manage multiple initiatives in a dynamic, fast-paced setting. - A full driver's license. Benefits We offer several benefits to our employees, including: - An additional week of annual leave after 12 months of employment. - Two paid wellbeing days. - HealthNow card with an annual benefit of $250. - Generous sick leave and salary. - KiwiSaver contributions and income protection. - Ongoing training and coaching support for career development. - Subsidies for school holiday programs and vehicle use. Applications close on June 19, 2025. Please note that this advertisement may close earlier if a suitable candidate is found. For more information, please visit our position description at: https://www.wisegroup.co.nz/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/PW-Kaiwhirimuka-2.pdf If you are passionate about empowering the voice, strength, and spirit of Māori youth in Aotearoa, we encourage you to apply. For inquiries, please contact Anaru Hawkins, Kaihautū, at 027 707 9330. Real is supported by Pathways Health Limited, a part of the Wise Group. We are committed to promoting healthy lifestyles and actively supporting a smoke-free environment.