“Since you are precious and honoured in my sight, and because I love you, I will give people in exchange for you, nations in exchange for your life. “ Isaiah 43:4

The Methodist Mission Southern staff play a crucial role in valuing our rangatahi by fostering a sense of self-worth and dignity, as expressed in Isaiah 43:4. Through their dedication and commitment, our staff empowers rangatahi to embrace their individuality, develop self-respect, and cultivate a positive self-image, highlighting their worth and significance in the eyes of each other and those they connect with.

Phill Hemopo is the Kairuruku Whare - Kaupapa Rakatahi/Co-ordinator of the Mission's Youth Transition House in Ōtepoti. He believes in the principle of "We value what they value," which highlights the importance of understanding and respecting the unique perspectives, interests, and aspirations of the rangatahi residents. By acknowledging and appreciating what they hold dear, we can create a supportive, nurturing environment that aligns with their values.

Within the Youth Transition Houses, staff strive to add value to the lives of the rangatahi residents, generously giving their time as one of the ways they contribute. They understand that time is a precious resource and dedicating it to the rangatahi shows genuine commitment and care. Whether it's offering guidance, listening to their concerns, or engaging in meaningful conversations, our staff prioritizes the well-being and personal growth of the rangatahi.

Our staff also recognize the importance of encouragement and upliftment. They demonstrate patience and understanding, showing that they value the rangatahi's journey and growth above their own. By asking thoughtful questions, actively listening, and showing genuine interest, our staff creates an atmosphere of affirmation and validation.

One resident has just transitioned out of the house, after self-referring some eleven months ago, and now has the skills and growth to have a place of their own. They are working part-time in a job they love and have enrolled in a polytechnic course to get enough credits to start nursing next year. The feedback given to the staff underscored the immense value of the individual's time spent in the house and the valuable knowledge acquired from the dedicated personnel.

Laura Wilson, Kairuruku Whare - Kaupapa Rakatahi/Co-ordinator at Waihōpai’s Youth Transition House, further affirms the worth and potential of the rangatahi by giving affirmation cards (alongside birthday and celebration cards) to the residents. Handmade by the Mission’s supporters’ club members, these cards offer words of encouragement and positivity, recognizing the profound impact that words can have on individuals and emphasizing the power of using language constructively to inspire, uplift, and heal. As Yehuda Berg aptly said, "Words have energy and power with the ability to help, to heal, to hinder, to hurt, to harm, to humiliate, and to humble."

The Youth Transition House plays a vital role in restoring the rangatahi's sense of self and agency by providing a safe space for them to freely express themselves without judgment. Within these walls, they find solace, humour, and meaningful conversations with caring individuals who genuinely value their well-being.

In the Young Mums’ Transition House, life skills are a focus for the Mums each day with all continuing with their education and exploring what housing options may be available to them in the future. They are discussing how that looks for them and also investigating ways to manage the rising cost of living. They are currently working on food waste and how to avoid it or what options there are to help with having less. With staff guidance, it was decided to trial, freezing leftovers, making use of old fruit for baking, and changing some grocery choices, would make a good start.

Our wonderful staff embodies Albert Schweitzer's quotation, "The purpose of human life is to serve and to show compassion and the will to help others." They entrust the rangatahi to embrace their individuality and develop a positive sense of self-value, fostering increased self-confidence, resilience, and the ability to set healthy boundaries. Their commitment to creating an environment where rangatahi feel supported, valued, and celebrated for who they are, encouraging them to embrace their strengths, learn from experiences, and cultivate a positive self-image that can withstand life's challenges, is the value of giving to others.

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