Te Roopu
The development of a Maori Caucus has been an ongoing commitment of the National Youth Workers Network Aotearoa, the timing and who would drive this initiative had to come from Maori and had to been driven from the ground.
At the National Council Hui a meeting was held, from this meeting the name of the Maori Caucus was officially re-named to Te Roopu, as the group was an evolving working group, developing through connecting with Maori Youth Workers and National Council members.
The waka of the National Youth Workers Network Aotearoa, Te Roopu has begun its journey. An exciting and unknown journey, a key focus of Te Roopu is getting this process right and being culturally competent with all processes.
Maraea Nikora, Ariana Elley, Marama Davidson, Barry Herbert , Manu Caddie, James Munroe, Briarley Yates, have been appointed the initial members of the Te Roopu. Zane Scarborough is enthusiastic to support Te Roopu, at a communication level. Ruru Hona will support Te Roopu in an advisory role.
A proposed date for this meeting is to be decided by the members. This meeting and location will be confirmed and advised.
Direction of the group was discussed as was a commitment from attendees of the meeting of capacity and genuine desire to be involved at this initial stage. All attendees have committed to be involved in the continued development. .
James Munroe was appointed by Te Roopu as the representative for the Code of Ethics working group. James does not sit alone or claim to represent Tangata Whenua. He is supported in his role as a member of the National Code of Ethics working group. Tangata Whenua representation is vital when drafting the first edition of the Code of Ethics Document.
The kaupapa of the Maori Caucus was discussed as was the opportunity to look at the reality of how many young Mäori people are being supported by Youth Workers at this time in their life, and how many of those Youth Workers are Maori.
Te Roopu have asked for a commitment from the NYWNA to hold a seat on the Board of management team, for Tangate Whenua. This was honored by the Chair Person, this was already the intention of the Board, once the request had been initiated.
