Pathways 2 Potential
Poipoia te kākano, kia puāwai – Nurture the seed and it will blossom
What is Pathways 2 Potential?
Pathways 2 Potential is a life skills and youth development programme that supports rangatahi to build confidence, grow practical skills and see positive pathways for their future.
The programme is designed for rangatahi who may feel disconnected from traditional learning and benefit from hands-on, real world experiences. Through practical activities, mentoring and community connections, rangatahi gain the skills they need to navigate school, work, whānau and everyday life.
Why life skills matter
Life skills help rangatahi live independently, build healthy relationships and make good decisions. Pathways 2 Potential focuses on skills that support both wellbeing and future success, including:
- Confidence and communication
- Managing emotions and stress
- Goal setting and motivation
- Financial literacy and budgeting
- Teamwork and problem solving
- Understanding work and career pathways
- Looking after hauora and wellbeing
How the programme works
Rangatahi take part in a structured programme that includes:
- Facilitated group sessions
- Hands-on, experiential learning
- Real world community and workplace experiences
- Mentoring and encouragement from trusted adults
- Time to reflect, build confidence and set goals
Learning is active and practical, with a strong focus on learning by doing rather than classroom based teaching.
A strengths based, culturally grounded approach
Pathways 2 Potential is grounded in te ao Māori and kaupapa Māori values, while being inclusive of all cultures.
The programme centres on:
- Mana Taiohi – uplifting the mana of every rangatahi
- Whanaungatanga – building connection and belonging
- Rangatahi voice – doing with, not to
- Strengths based practice – focusing on potential
Rangatahi choose to take part and are supported in a safe, respectful environment.
Mentors and champions
Rangatahi are supported by skilled facilitators and trusted champions who walk alongside them during and beyond the programme. These relationships help build confidence, strengthen engagement and support long-term positive change.
Who is the programme for?
Pathways 2 Potential supports rangatahi who:
- Are in Years 8, or Years 10 to 13
- Are disengaged or struggling in traditional learning environments
- Want to build confidence and life skills
- Are exploring future education, training or work pathways
- Outcomes for rangatahi
Pathways 2 Potential supports rangatahi to:
- Build confidence and self-belief
- Strengthen engagement with learning
- Develop practical life and work ready skills
- Set clearer goals for the future
- Build positive relationships and resilience
- Delivered locally by WYAT
Wairoa Young Achievers Trust is proud to support Pathways 2 Potential as a locally led kaupapa, grounded in the aspirations of Wairoa rangatahi and their whānau.
Want to know more?
If you would like to learn more about Pathways 2 Potential or get involved, please contact the WYAT team. We would love to kōrero with you. Visit the WYAT offices at 86 Marine Parade, Wairoa, call us on (06) 838 3886, or email info@wyat.co.nz.
