COMMUNITY PROJECT #417 - YOUTH GOVERNANCE INCUBATOR
Mission Statement:
To cultivate the next generation of "Universal Constructors" by placing rangatahi on shadow boards of local trusts to master governance and strategy.
The Needs Assessment:
Currently, many of our regional boards suffer from a "Static Bureaucracy" trap, where aging leadership lacks a clear succession plan. This creates a disconnect where our youth feel they have no narrative of success or connection to the decision-making processes that govern their whenua.
Core Objectives:
Establish 5 shadow-board programmes within local Iwi or community trusts.
Train 20 rangatahi in formal governance, financial literacy, and strategic planning.
Develop one formal succession plan for each participating board within 12 months.
Facilitate monthly "mentorship circles" between shadow-board members and senior trustees.
Stakeholder Map:
Iwi & Hapū Trusts: Providing the shadow-board positions and institutional knowledge.
Rangatahi: The primary participants and future leaders.
Governance Experts: Providing the technical "software" for board operations.
Local High Schools: For the identification of potential leadership talent.
The "Impact" Model:
This initiative builds "Social Negentropy" by ensuring the continuity of leadership. Instead of revenue, value is created through the preservation of intellectual and institutional sovereignty. Sustainability is powered by a "succession tithe" from participating trusts to fund ongoing training.
Engagement Strategy:
We will use social media and "Leadership Wānanga" to frame governance as a modern form of navigation. We will target rangatahi who are already showing "Digital Tohunga" capabilities and invite them to apply for the shadow boards.
Resource Requirements:
Board-room space and digital communication tools for shadow sessions.
Professional governance training modules adapted for a Māori worldview.
Modest stipends for rangatahi to ensure equity and participation.
Timeline of Action:
Week 1: Finalise agreements with three pilot boards for the shadow-programme.
Week 2: Launch the "Call for Future Leaders" across Te Tai Tokerau.
Week 3: Conduct orientation wānanga on the Mauri Model of decision-making.
Week 4: First official "Shadow Session" held alongside senior board meetings.
Mauri Assessment
Te Taiao (Environment): 0 — Neutral impact, though governance decisions influenced by the Mauri Model benefit the land.
Te Ahurea (Culture): +1 — Ensures the "Deep Spirit" of ancestral knowledge is integrated into modern boardrooms.
Te Tangata (Social): +2 — Directly addresses youth disengagement by providing a clear pathway to community leadership.
Te Pūtea (Economic): +1 — Builds the financial literacy needed to manage regional assets and stop capital flight.
