The Instep Young Leaders had their third business breakfast, hosted at the Bay of Plenty Regional Council (BOPRC) in collaboration with Western Bay of Plenty District Council and Tauranga City Council. The Young Leaders Forum business breakfasts play a vital role in shaping the future of our students. By exposing them to the endless opportunities available in our community and providing constructive learning and networking opportunities, we are encouraging our youth to think about the future of work.

During the event, the young leaders had the opportunity to express their thoughts and ideas regarding what young people need to live, work, and play in the region of Tauranga Moana. Their feedback proved to be highly beneficial, as it provided valuable insights into the aspirations and concerns of this generation. Respected guests, including Councillor Kat Macmillan and Councillor Te Taru White from the Bay of Plenty Regional Council, Councillor Richard Crawford from the Western Bay of Plenty District Council, and Commissioner Shadrach Rolleston from the Tauranga City Council, addressed the group and shared their appreciation for the young leaders’ involvement in shaping the region’s future.

Various topics that have a significant impact on the community were discussed during the business breakfast. One such topic was the Engagement/Navigational Safety Bylaw, which sparked conversations about the role of the Bay of Plenty Regional Council in connecting different districts and ensuring the safety of community members. Tauranga City Council also provided a beneficial understanding into the Long-Term Plan (LTP) and budgets, allowing the young leaders to appreciate the allocation of resources and its implications for the community.

From a rangatahi perspective, the students stressed the value of budget allocations for activities specifically targeted towards youth. They emphasised the need for reliable buses, more routes, additional covered bus stops, and extended operating hours, especially during the evenings. Recognising the significance of accessible transportation in fostering community engagement and opportunities for young people, their input served as a reminder of the importance of considering the needs of the next generation in urban planning and development.

The breakfast event also provided an opportunity to meet Samuel Taylor, an ex-Instep young leader who is currently studying at Harvard University in the United States. Samuel is back in the region, supporting the Environmental Strategy Team at BOPRC over the winter months. His presence served as a testament to the impact that the Instep Young Leaders program can have on the lives of its participants. Samuel’s dedication to environmental initiatives and his pursuit of higher education at a prestigious institution showcased the positive outcomes that can arise from nurturing young talent and passion within the community.

In addition to the valuable interactions with the Bay of Plenty Regional Council and Tauranga City Council, the young leaders engaged with the Western Bay of Plenty Regional Council. Discussions centered around topics related to Economic Development and Waste Management & Minimisation. The leaders were thrilled to learn more about the council’s initiatives and had the opportunity to share their concerns regarding the environment. They emphasised the need for increased education and employment opportunities in the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) field, highlighting the importance of preparing the next generation for the challenges and opportunities of the future.

The Instep Young Leaders business breakfast held in collaboration with the Bay of Plenty Regional Council, Western Bay of Plenty District Council, and Tauranga City Council served as a platform for empowering youth to get involved and add their voice to shaping the future of the Tauranga Moana.