Te Aka Matua
What is TAMs?
TAMS exists to weave a thriving Waikato youth sector together.
In the last year, Te Aka Matua has stoked the fires thanks to resource and support which allowed Seed to bring on a lead (hi, it’s me Dujon writing) to grow the workstream, awhi and reposition TAM as a dedicated youth sector supporting body.
Te Aka Matua has a short but strong history of youth sector participation and impact in Waikato, bringing together youth organisations for sector cohesion and capacity-building since the covid era.
It’s an honour to continue that work alongside TAM members and shape some practical ways we can add value to kaimahi and rangatahi alike.
So, what’s happening? We have kickstarted a groundbreaking youth sector collab and further developed our work with Here To Help U.
Both impact projects have gained momentum in 2025, and recent wins are testament to months of tedious groundwork and connectivity across the youth sector. Considerable time has been spent exploring the youth subsector ecosystem, building connections and understanding the complexities, challenges and aspirations each of the subsectors present.
TAM's initiatives
Here To Help Youth:
Our online youth referral portal campaign in partnership with Here To Help U. This service streamlines the referral process, making it easy for youth to access the support they need and organisations to deliver efficient services in response.
This youth sector-specific campaign is exciting because it offers us several ways to improve sector health and amplify pathways for youth so they can thrive. Through data insights, back-end capability-building for youth services, we see the potential in this model redefining local youth development.
Youth Subsector Collab:
Our convening platform which brings together the ecosystem of youth-facing organisations for change and collaboration.
Action-oriented sessions themed by subsector, where services identify challenges, aspirations and create solutions through collective action.
Shared understanding and experiences lead to meaningful advocacy, systems change, and impactful outcomes.
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Where can I learn more?
The history of Te Aka Matua is expanded on over at the official TAMs website! So jump on over to check it out, read up, get connected and learn more!