Blog
Gisborne… Confronting Big Issues
Published by on June 26, 2011 in Inspiring Stories Trust, Workshops
The workshop this week was fascinating. We had a big crowd, including five ‘alternative education’ students. Having not worked with ‘at-risk’ young people before I was nervous. Another reason to be nervous was the ‘mihi-whakatau’ welcome from our hosts – the Matapuna Training Centre. As part of the welcome ceremony I had to respond on behalf our crew in Te Reo Maori – for me this was a first time, a scary time, and a really unique opportunity. A nervous young man I stood up to acknowledge our Matapuna hosts after their waiata. The room was silent apart from the sound of my own voice. But despite the fear it all worked out fine. Apparently (haha) it was well spoken. And our workshop kicked off in fine style!
I find some of the most inspiring story ideas often come from people who have struggled through adversity. Imagine growing up with a physical disability in a gang-affiliated home. Imagine being bullied and abused most of your life to finally discover support and encouragement to radically turn your life around, to be inspired to pursue your passion and make something of yourself. This is a true story of one of our young filmmakers we connected with this week.
Huge THANKS to Trudy from Matapuna – your support was incredible. It wouldn’t have been the same without you!
Here’s a short slam poetry piece that two friends from the road trip – Iain & Lani have put together. Here’s Tyson Paul from Northland:
Since we drove around the beautiful East Cape, we’ve been confronted with some pretty big issues. Amongst these, and perhaps the most contentious is the off-shore oil drilling. The public backlash is huge here, and from everyone we’ve managed to talk to during the week it sounds as though there’s been little-to-no consultation with the local people. If somebody wanted to do something with potentially catastrophic consequences in your backyard, wouldn’t you want to be consulted? I was reminded again of the complexity of the oil situation watching the film Collapse.
It feels strange to be wrapping up week#13 on the road. I’m grateful for such an incredible opportunity to connect with so many fascinating people and places around Aotearoa. Just two weeks left, and just one more Inspiring Stories workshop to go – Wellington, July 8th & 9th… woohooo!
Southland Inspiration…
Published by on March 20, 2011 in ReGeneration
Ever been to Southland? First time for me, and we’ve just finished the week with the ReGen two-day Youth Jam at Colac Bay Marae. Young leaders from Te Anau, Riverton, and Invercargill gathered to share ideas, stories, and get creative – epic.
Ever heard of a ‘food forest’? Imagine a dense jungle-like area in your own backyard – but almost all of the plants are edible. Apples, plums, blueberries, artichokes, a plethora of fresh vegetables and herbs – the list goes on. A love for the land. A love for fresh organic food, and an incredible example of what’s possible in your own backyard – meet the Guytons from Riverton!
I finally had a day off – or a half day at least. It’s crazy how much I love this project – completely absorbed. But to work well I’ve come to the realise the importance of self-care, rest and relaxation. Here’s my reflections on the journey so far:
http://www.vimeo.com/21149404
On another note, good friend and fellow ReGen roady crew member and colleague Iain Frengley has put together this short clip. Zane Smith doing what he loves, living the dream on the West Coast. This clip is just part of a 90-second ‘changemaker’ series he’s putting together along the roady – you can find more here.
Now high on life and well energised, the crew is excited about getting on the road again – next stop Dunedin. Inspiring Stories next two-day workshop Thursday & Friday!
