New partnership to boost Pasifika youth leadership and career pathways through arts and culture

A new initiative aims to empower Pasifika youth across Aotearoa by providing practical career skills and leadership development through the arts. On 5 September 2026, the Government announced a partnership with Pasifika Festivals Aotearoa to deliver the Pasifika Youth Producers Programme, a 16-week initiative designed to bridge the gap between education and employment. The Government is investing $125,000 into the project, a figure matched dollar-for-dollar by Creative New Zealand. Youth Minister James Meager and Pacific Peoples Minister Paul Goldsmith stated the programme will focus on delivering measurable outcomes for 32 young people through two distinct pathways. For participants aged 18 to 24, the programme offers paid festival placements, industry mentoring, and employability training. A second stream, tailored for those aged 12 to 17, focuses on leadership workshops and strengthening engagement with education. According to Mr Meager, the initiative turns cultural environments into "launchpads for future careers," offering hands-on experience in event production, digital media, logistics, and entrepreneurship. Minister Paul Goldsmith highlighted the importance of this investment given that the Pacific population is one of the youngest and fastest-growing in New Zealand. He noted that the programme is a positive step toward growing the talent the country needs while strengthening the economic and social contributions of Pacific communities. The programme aims to ensure the next generation of leaders can thrive while remaining deeply connected to their culture and community roots.