VISION: UPLIFTING LIVES
MISSION: ‘Driving SOCIAL CHANGE projects that enable EXCELLENCE IN EDUCATION and overall WELLBEING’
Launched in 2021 by the RISE Group in partnership with Tāmaki College, Project RISE addresses the pressing social challenges impacting education and wellbeing in Auckland's Tāmaki region.
Rooted in youth participation and leadership, the initiative empowers those most affected to shape and implement transformative education, social, and entrepreneurial solutions. With a vision to "Uplift Lives," Project RISE drives social progress through project-based education, employment, and enterprise.
Heading into 2025, we’re doubling down on our commitment to youth through the WAYFYNDERS system, encompassing:
WAYFYNDERS AGENCY: A youth consulting platform.
WAYFYNDERS ACADEMY: Project-based learning initiatives.
WAYFYNDERS ENTERPRISES: Employment and entrepreneurial ventures, including PAYRISE.
WAYFYNDERS FUTURES: Expanding local to global experiences and opportunities for ambitious youth.
By fostering meaningful experiences and pathways, Project RISE uplifts youth, families, and the Tāmaki community, enabling them to thrive locally and on the global stage.
Our Initiatives
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The WAYFYNDERS youth development system empowers young people through four interconnected pathways: WAYFYNDERS AGENCY, a youth consulting platform amplifying their voices; WAYFYNDERS ACADEMY, offering project-based learning for real-world skills; WAYFYNDERS ENTERPRISES, driving employment and entrepreneurship through initiatives like PAYRISE; and WAYFYNDERS FUTURES, unlocking global opportunities for ambitious youth to thrive.
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Presented by WAYFYNDERS Enterprises in association with PAYRISE, Soulfood & Friends offers students and young people from the local community valuable opportunities to learn, grow, and earn in the vibrant hospitality and events sector. With a focus on both immediate impact and long-term outcomes, it equips youth with essential skills, hands-on experience, and pathways to rewarding careers.
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In partnership with PAYRISE, WAYFYNDERS Enterprises presents ROOSTA, working with Soulfood & Friends to provide logistical support and develop a community-focused delivery service. ROOSTA offers local youth opportunities to learn, grow, and earn in logistics, equipping them with skills, experience, and pathways to rewarding careers.
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Presented by WAYFYNDERS Enterprises in partnership with PAYRISE, this Youth Employment Pathways initiative offers intensive support to participants aged 15-24, providing further training and employment placements through our Social Enterprises and network.
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Jointly presented by WAYFYNDERS Academy and Enterprises in partnership with PAYRISE, digiTribe3 creates digital platforms and pathways for young people and families in the Tāmaki community, enabling earn-and-learn opportunities while fostering digitally connected communities.
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WAYFYNDERS Academy presents Tāmaki Ako Hub, a community initiative enhancing literacy and life skills through targeted programs that empower individuals and support personal and community growth. By fostering a nurturing learning environment, the hub builds a more educated, confident, and capable Tāmaki community.
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The GOOD FOOD Project aims to improve food security and is currently in the planning phase. This includes exploring the possibility of establishing a purpose-built community kitchen aligned with Tāmaki College's Masterplans. The project is also closely linked with Soul Food & Friends.
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Tāmaki College's Masterplans focus on developing co-located service facilities and community services, with RISE Group playing a key role in securing investments and partnerships to support these efforts. As the primary beneficiaries of Project RISE, Tāmaki College students and their families benefit directly from the initiatives delivered by the Rise Group Trust Board.
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RISE GLOBAL is in the planning phase, focusing on global project-based learning exchanges and online learning, aimed at elevating youth and showcasing the Tāmaki education system and community on a global stage.
MAKING A DIFFERENCE…
Our mission is to empower young people and their families by providing enriching experiences, fostering a strong sense of community pride, and creating clear pathways to a brighter future. Through collective effort and by utilising schools as key community hubs, we seek to drive transformative change. We invite you to join us on this positive journey with Project RISE.
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Our philosophy is empowerment over charity. Membership grants you an opportunity to actively participate in Project RISE initiatives. While there's no membership fee, we're always appreciative of generous donations
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The power of collaboration is undeniable. We continually seek collaborations with providers to amplify our reach and efficacy. If you're keen on supporting not just the College, but also the broader Tāmaki school community, and have valuable contributions to make, let's connect.
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We welcome opportunities to collaborate with governmental bodies, industries, and philanthropic organisations. Partnering with us allows our Charitable Trust to launch initiatives that resonate deeply with children, the youth, their families, and the extended Tāmaki community.
