Youth Action Group

Thursday 22nd May 2025 saw the launch of something pretty special in the Greater Green Island area – the very first Greater Green Island Youth Action Group (YAG), kicked off with a gathering at St Mark’s. It was a down-to-earth, good vibes kind of evening, filled with whānau, food, and fun – and the start of what we reckon will be some awesome mahi from our local young people.

This new initiative, with support from local schools and the community, is all about giving young people a genuine chance to get involved with the real stuff going on around here. It’s about action – not just talking, but doing. What stood out in the interviews was how keen these young people are to work with their community, not separate from it.

Out of 31 impressive applications from Year 6 upwards, we’ve brought together 16 young legends who are keen to roll up their sleeves and help make Greater Green Island even better. One participant asked, “Can we be involved in those events like the Christmas Market? Because those are awesome.” That’s the energy we love.

The group will meet regularly at the GGICN base to brainstorm ideas, plan projects, and help shape the community spaces and events we all enjoy. And it’s not just about “youth stuff” – the whole kaupapa is about all ages working together to do great things for our neighbourhood.

The project is overseen by the team at the Greater Green Island Community Network and made possible through support from the Otago Community Trust as part of the Wheako project and a special shout out to the Mosgiel Foodbank for helping with catering.

At the launch, the group and their whānau got stuck into some team-building activities, shared their hopes for the future, and showed exactly why they were chosen – passionate, full of ideas, and ready to pitch in.

As we said on the night – communities that back their young people help them thrive. We’re proud to be backing this group, and can’t wait to see where they take things next.