Our youth are our future and we believe that it is important that they are given the best chances to grow and develop in a way that will enhance the multicultural society we live in. Breaking down the barriers between different ethnic youths and New Zealand youths and building understanding is essential to a bright future for New Zealand.

Ethnic Voice NZ organised a two-day event including an overnight stay at Orakei marae where the youth interacted together, built relationships, broke down barriers and bridged the gaps. They bridged the gap by working together on a challenging project - building a bridge - signifying "bridging the gap" "building a bridge to see who and what is on the other side". This project promoted understanding, acceptance and respect among our culturally diverse youth.

The Event “Bridging the Gap”

Bridging the Gap REPORT

Aims of Project

The aim of this project is to bring together youths from both New Zealand and ethnic communities to continue to break down barriers and promote understanding among our young New Zealanders.

Objectives of this project

• For youth of all cultures to gain knowledge about the different cultures and through this knowledge build understanding and respect.

• To change unhelpful attitudes and stereotypes held about different cultures to build a better future for New Zealand as a multicultural society.

• To understand different cultural behaviours and how they impact on relationships and how to manage those relationships.

• To learn about the New Zealand culture and the society migrant youth now call home.

• For youth to work on a challenging project together, learning from each other, sharing ideas, solving problems to come up with the best solutions.