Wiremu chosen for young leadership programme
Friday 13 April 2012
Mayor Jenny Rowan and Rangatahi Leadership candidate Wiremu Winitana
Mayor Jenny Rowan will have an occasional companion over the next year as she performs her civic duties.
Wiremu Winitana, 17, from Ōtaki has been chosen to take part in the Rangatahi Leadership Programme, funded by Te Puni Kōkori. The programme, designed to identify and develop young Māori leaders, arose out of the Mayors Taskforce for Jobs.
Mayor Rowan will mentor Wiremu over the next year, which will involve meeting with him once a month and helping him understand the world of local government and civic responsibility. Wiremu has already accompanied the Mayor to a number of functions and meetings.
“Wiremu came with me to a Rugby World Cup function and an Ōtaki Community Board meeting. He will also take part in ANZAC Day ceremonies. It’s great to have him along and to get an insight into how our world is seen through the eyes of a young person.
“I fully support the objectives of the Rangitahi Leadership programme to identify future young leaders and develop their potential. I know I will get as much from participating as I hope Wiremu does.”
Wiremu, a student at Ōtaki College, is a member of the Youth Council and was chosen to take part in the Rangatahi Leadership Programme. He says he is very grateful for the opportunities the programme provides.
“I think it is really amazing. I have always had an interest in politics and the world and this is a great way of accessing the experiences Jenny has had in her life and to learn from them.”
As part of the programme Wiremu recently attended a leadership hui in Hamilton, which he says he found very valuable.