MC4 is a leadership programme aimed towards Pacifica Youth, led by Jeremiah Tauti, and on Wednesday the 22nd of March, a group of Pacifica students spent the day at the Te Pai centre with many others from various West Auckland schools and together we kicked off the first session of MC4 for the year.

When we arrived we played a song related ice breaker which pushed a lot of us to talk with the other students and step out of our comfort zone. Afterwards we all gathered together to have a talanoa with Jeremiah about the 17-week long programme and learn about why we were there. The talanoa was very engaging, I felt that many of us could relate to his background/upbringing and what he had to say. We were also introduced to our mentors – Ivan, Jacky, Kiti and Fifita – and some ex-MC4 students who took part in the programme last year, who were going to help direct us in our journey.

We were split up into mixed groups and spent the day doing mini workshops and activities that required us to step up and put ideas forward, communicate effectively and put together a presentation about what we believe “Destined for greatness” means and what it looks like. We also had a really nice feed they provided for lunch; chop suey, taro, chicken, potato salad – the works!

MC4 is a mana-enriching programme that pushes Pacifica students to strive for excellence and reach their best potential – to be their best selves and become leaders. The theme for this year is “Destined for greatness”. The youth of today are the leaders of tomorrow. We are the future.

On the way back to school the van was filled with conversation and bowls of leftovers from lunch. Everyone was talking about how much fun it was and how we were all looking forward to next week’s session.

Malo ‘aupito for Mr Talamaivao for taking us out.

Vainiaku Tupou 12 GR