Wahine Activate a Powerful Programme for Young Mothers

Photo courtesy of Gisborne Herald - Wahine Activate mother Renee Semmens straightens the hair of customer Naleya Ahu at her business hub in Kaiti Mall

TRONPnui Whanau Oranga tutor Leighton Packer is the power-of-positivity behind the mother's support group Wahine Activate. The group, established through a Work and Income contract, caters for twenty mums from the ages of 19 to 29, to support them into employment.

Gaining education opportunities and securing employment is the number one goal for the iwi social services programme with group activities tailored to boost confidence and self esteem, teach life skills and nurture a culture of caring.  Budgeting, parenting tips, growing a maara, barista training, driver licencing and first aid training has been tackled since the programme's set up date in July.

There has also been health and fitness sessions, the championing of community campaigns including Gisborne's anti bullying hikoi last November, and voluntary work. The Mothers meet every week day from 10am to 2pm while their children are in day care or kohanga.

Recently the women opened an entrepreneurial venture at the Kaiti Mall called Mama’s Hub. Each mum has a personal money making project she brings to the hub including make up, hair straightening, gift packs and manicures.  Initially Mama’s Hub will be open for business at the Kaiti Mall over a thirteen week period.

“A lot of people tell my mamas 'they can't do this and that' but I want them to know they can do anything they want . . . if they believe in themselves,” says Leighton. “I want them to 'do the do' and own their awesomeness by putting steps in place to reach their dreams.”

Former group member Sharvene Vertongen says the “mama's group” has helped her in “100 different ways.”  The 27-year-old gained a level 3 certificate in computer studies with support from the group.

“I will always be grateful for the skills I acquired and the bonds of friendship which I know will last a lifetime,” she says.

Recently Sharvene completed three months work experience as Wahine  Activate’s  administrator and receptionist, before securing a casual administration position for the Department of Conservation. However Sharvene is keen to find a permanent position.

Another two of the mamas were able to secure some part time work at local retail food establishments, Food for Thought and China Palace.  In the current economic environment finding full time permanent employment is a challenge, and not only isolated to the mothers on Wahine Activate.

For some mamas, entering a new environment was extremely difficult, says Leighton. She is especially proud of two women in her group - the shyest people she has ever met - who are now tackling with confidence a carpentry course and studying for their driver's licences.

She says, “These mums did not know how to talk to the others. One wouldn't say boo and the other had anxiety communicating with people.”

Leighton helps to motivate the women on the programme, by listening to what they want in life and then helping them to reach it, for some of the mothers this has meant accessing other supports and services from Whanau Oranga.

“Whatever it takes to help these mamas achieve their career and/or employment goals we will do our very best to support them”, according to Leighton’s manager Fleur Paenga.