He Manawa Titi
Dunedin
He Manawa Titi, founded on long-held Māori traditions, stories and practices passed down through the generations, is an initiative with a strong focus on rangatahi Māori. He Manawa Titi work with rangatahi Māori tane (15-24 years old) in monthly wānanga, where the primary focus will be learning Mau Rākau and Kapahaka. Participants will learn their pēpeha and the whakapapa of the area, within a supportive Kaupapa Māori environment. A mentoring system will also be established, where Rangatahi will be supported by pakeke and/or mentors during the time between each wānanga. Wānanga will be Marae based and activities will reconnect Participants with marae practices, including the gathering of kai and tikanga. He Manawa Titi will be delivered by two proficient Mau Rākau tutors and will provide a pick up and drop off service to alleviate any transportation barriers. Whānau will be invited to at least one wānanga to see the progress of their son during his He Manawa Titi journey.
*This Iwi Initiative was supported by the Māori Suicide Prevention Community Fund 2020-2021.
Organisation: Te Roopu Tautoko ki te Tonga Incorporated
Rutu Aperira
Rutu’s dreams and aspirations come from lived experience following the tragic suicide of her 18year old brother, and she determined to do something to honour his memory and help raise awareness about suicide causations and risks.