The South Auckland Creative Tech Hub’s (SACTH) Grassroots Tech workshops marked a significant milestone as they celebrated the achievements of their first cohort with three students receiving scholarships to study at NZ Media Design School. 

SACTH is a gateway for South Auckland young people to be inspired, access technology and upskill for future creative projects and employment opportunities in the creative and tech sector.

The Grassroots Tech workshops, an initiative of the SACTH, were introduced with the aim of empowering young minds not currently in education, employment or training in South Auckland. The workshops foster creativity and innovation in the fields of technology and the arts. 

The scholarships valued at $10,000 will begin when they start their first semester in July.

Set over the course of six weeks, and delivered by established education providers and tutors, the workshops provided a platform for aspiring individuals to develop their skills and explore their potential in various creative and tech-related disciplines.

Young Samoan’s Psalms Falelua and Conaugh Elisara and Māori student Jarryd Eramiha, were  exceptional talents from the Grassroots Tech workshops, and have been awarded scholarships to study at the Media Design School.

Psalms aims to utilise her skills to communicate powerful messages through visual storytelling. With a passion for film and editing, her dream is to be a film editor. The scholarship awarded to her by the Media Design School is a testament to her potential and will  provide her with the tools and knowledge to make a lasting impact in the industry.

“I never would have had this opportunity if it weren’t for the workshops,” says the young aspiring film editor. 

“I got to work with different software in an environment that made me feel like I could achieve anything. I hope to learn more and make connections with people in the industry.”

Conaugh, who says he wasn’t too keen on taking up the opportunity when he first heard about the workshops, is interested in graphic design and animation.

“I’m glad I did come through because I would have missed out,” says the Australian born Kiwi, “but I want to be able to do my own animations and just going to the Media Design school after these workshops gets me closer to that dream.” 

The success of Psalms Falelua and Conaugh Elisara serves as an inspiration to young people  in South Auckland, showcasing the potential and talent that exists within the community. 

Moreover is the importance of pastoral care in encouraging the participants to complete the workshops. Delivered by Do Good Feel Good Youth Mobilisers at The Cause Collective, participants were looked after not just from an educational perspective but from a social, mental health and cultural one as the youth mobilisers helped support them throughout the workshops.

Muliaga Danny Leaoasava’ii (Brotha D) the Creative Lead of SACTH

“We saw these young ones come in and just grow and come out of their shell in the six weeks that they’ve been with us,” says Muliaga Danny Leaoasava’ii (Brotha D) the Creative Lead of SACTH.

“We wanted to create a safe and supportive environment where young people could explore their passions and gain confidence in their abilities. We wanted to inspire them to dream big and reach for the stars.

“We hope that their success will inspire other young people in South Auckland to pursue their dreams and realise their full potential.”

SACTH is part of the Matangi Fou initiative at The Cause Collective and focuses on the future of work for Pacific peoples in South Auckland. Along with its partners and supporters, SACTH remains committed to providing opportunities for individuals from diverse backgrounds. 

Falelua’s talent for film, editing and visual arts will now be further honed, while Elisara’s passion for graphic design and visual arts will be nurtured as he furthers his education in the field.

“Our mission is to empower young people and create a brighter future for South Auckland,” says Brotha D.

“Their achievements highlight the potential and talent that exists within the community, and it is a testament to the effectiveness of initiatives such as the Grassroots Tech workshops in nurturing and uplifting the next generation of leaders.”

“I would also like to thank Sky City Community Trust, Lotteries NZ, Foundation North and the Tindall Foundation whose incredible financial support enabled us to continue this mahi.” 

The success of Psalms Falelua and Conaugh Elisara reinforces the belief that with the right resources, guidance, and support, the youth of South Auckland can thrive and make their mark on the global stage.

As the first cohort of the Grassroots Tech workshops celebrates their achievements, the SACTH looks forward to future cohorts and endeavors to continue empowering South Auckland’s youth. 

Fostering creativity, driving innovation and supporting a thriving economy, in South Auckland.