UNICEF Aotearoa on the search for 2024
Young Ambassadors

UNICEF Aotearoa on the search for 2024 Young Ambassadors: Calling rangatahi to ‘Amplify YOUR influence’

AUCKLAND, New Zealand – April 15th, 2024 - UNICEF Aotearoa is calling rangatahi across the motu to become UNICEF Aotearoa Young Ambassadors for 2024. This year’s programme asks rangatahi to 'Amplify YOUR influence’ and urges passionate young individuals to seize this chance to make a difference for their communities.

The UNICEF Aotearoa Young Ambassador programme empowers six rangatahi aged 17-24, offering them a powerful platform to amplify the voices of tamariki and rangatahi and advocate for issues crucial to them and the next generation.

Twenty-year-old Thomas Blakie (Ngāi Tahu) says being a young ambassador has given him opportunities to have meaningful conversations with both rangatahi and the nation’s key decision-makers.

“We’ve been able to meet with other amazing and diverse rangatahi, changemakers, politicians, activists, and inspiring individuals and groups across the motu.

“A highlight has been the chance to join with other rangatahi from different regions, sharing our experiences and perspectives to advocate together for young people in Aotearoa. I’ve learned the power we as young people can collectively have on our future, one small action at a time.”

Current young ambassador Ngārita Mackenzie, 18, (Ngāi Tāmanuhiri, Ngāti Kahungunu) says UNICEF Aotearoa has helped to strengthen her advocacy skills and represent her culture.

“The program has provided me with training regarding government advocacy, public speaking, and media work. The public speaking skills UNICEF Aotearoa has provided me with has been invaluable, as I feel I have become more confident in myself and my beliefs,” says Ngārita. “UNICEF Aotearoa provided me with an opportunity to grow as a rangatahi Māori and has supported myself and other Māori advocates to strengthen connections with our own culture.”

UNICEF Aotearoa Young Ambassador Programme Lead, Angus Lonergan, emphasises the importance of empowering young people and making sure they have a say in shaping policies and decisions affecting their lives.

“Political decisions impact the futures and livelihoods of young people across Aotearoa and many of them have been left out of critical conversations and decision making. Now more than ever, there is a necessity for young voices to be elevated and empowered in national and global discourse.

“We recognise the value of young people’s voices and the unique perspectives, innovative ideas, and diverse lived experiences they bring to the decision-making table. It doesn’t matter where you live in New Zealand if you live in small towns, rural communities, or in urban areas– we want to hear from you.”

Applications for the UNICEF Aotearoa Young Ambassador Programme are open now until Sunday, May 5th, 2024. To apply, visit: unicef.org.nz/young-ambassadors-2024