Refugee Youth Logo

Creating Lasting Impact Through Youth-Led Initiatives.

We engage, empower, and advocate for refugee youth through dedicated programmes and events. Discover how our initiatives foster leadership, build community, and create opportunities for young people to thrive across Aotearoa.

Our Refugee Youth Leadership Programme

Designed to empower refugee youth and equip them with the skills and knowledge necessary to take on leadership roles within their communities.

Key Development Areas:

  • Leadership Skills Development: Communication, teamwork, decision-making, conflict resolution.
  • Advocacy Training: Engage in policy discussions and youth rights.
  • Community Projects: Youth-led solutions for education, mental health, and integration.
  • Practical Learning: Workshops and real-world experience.
  • Mentorship: Support from experienced leaders.
  • Global Networking: Attend forums and events.

Programme Timeline

Year 1: Skill Building & Training

  • Introduction & Icebreakers
  • Leadership & Communication Training
  • Advocacy Skills
  • Project Planning Workshop

Year 2: Taking the Lead

  • Project Implementation
  • Mentorship & Feedback
  • External Events & Conferences
  • Capstone Presentation & Graduation

Where We Work

Auckland, Hamilton, Levin, Wellington, Christchurch, Invercargill

Event & Project Highlights

Impact Youth Development Programme

Empowering Refugee Youth in Levin

Levin has a growing community of Colombian and Venezuelan refugees aged 12-25. Facing isolation, mental health struggles, and discrimination, these young people expressed a need for a dedicated space to connect. Impact was born from this need.

Since starting, we've seen a huge improvement in well-being, with local schools reporting that participants are more confident, engaged, and motivated. Many have transitioned to full-time work or higher education.

Focus Areas

  • Mental & Physical Health
  • Educational Development
  • Belonging & Integration
  • Leadership & Activism
Impact Programme
World Refugee Day

World Refugee Day

Each year on World Refugee Day, we celebrate the incredible resilience, creativity, and achievements of refugee youth in New Zealand. Our youth-led events are a chance to acknowledge challenges, highlight their strength, and promote inclusion.

Key Events Include:

  • Cultural Performances
  • Art Exhibitions
  • Community Gatherings
  • Powerful Theatre Performances

Youth Week

Youth Week is a celebration of young people, with events organized by refugee youth across all resettlement locations. The week is focused on promoting community, belonging, and cultural pride through fun and engaging activities.

Activities Include:

  • Sports & Team-Building Games
  • Arts, Music & Dance Showcases
  • Carnival Games & Talent Shows
  • Leadership & Advocacy Workshops

"It was an incredible feeling to lead and organise this event for my community. It showed me what I'm capable of."

- Youth Leader, Wellington
Youth Week

Get Involved

Want to join our next event? There are plenty of ways to get involved, whether you're a young person wanting to participate, a leader eager to volunteer, or a supporter looking to make a difference.

Check Out Our Upcoming Events