UNICEF NZ has partnered with 3news.co.nz to launch 3YOUTH a new section of the 3 News site, which gives young New Zealanders a chance to have their say on the stories that matter to them.

The section was launched at the UNICEF Youth Congress that took place in the July. Over 50 young people from across New Zealand came together in Auckland to discuss social issues here and in the Pacific.

At the Congress students were given practical media and advocacy training sessions to help them create their own campaigns.  UNICEF NZ Ambassador Mike McRoberts also stopped by to share his experiences of journalism and to relay his stories from ‘the field’.

James Murray, Chief Editor of 3news.co.nz, said, “There are a lack of young voices in the media and a lack of stories written by and for young people. We wanted to address that, so alongside UNICEF we have set up a new section of the site – 3YOUTH.”

So far the team at 3YOUTH has published 16 stories – each offering a fresh take on current affairs with subjects as diverse as drink driving laws and youth programs in South Auckland.

“Writers have looked to their local communities for inspiration and not been afraid to get an interview or search for interesting source information,” Murray adds.

“I look forward to this project expanding, and for the stories of our young ambassadors to be integrated into the big stories of the day. I hope this project goes some way to giving young people a voice in the mainstream media.”

Sarah Morris, International Advocacy Manager at UNICEF NZ, said “UNICEF New Zealand is pleased to be working with 3news.co.nz on this exciting project. Young people make up around 14% of our population, yet there are few opportunities for them to express their views on issues that affect them.  Through 3YOUTH, young New Zealanders can draw attention to critical issues, from binge-drinking and driver licensing changes, to international aid. We look forward to seeing this project evolve over the coming months.”

Read more about 3YOUTH