In the beating heart of our vibrant community lies a cornerstone of youthful vigour and dynamism - Shore Junction. From its humble beginnings three years ago, it has grown and flourished into a bustling hive of activity, now boasting a 2,500-strong youth membership. As I reflect on this incredible journey and prepare for the next exciting chapter of my life, I am filled with immense gratitude and pride for what we have accomplished together.

Shore Junction has transformed from an empty building into a bustling hub for youth in our community. This metamorphosis has been shaped not only by the physical construction of the space but more importantly by the myriad relationships that have been built. We have nurtured a truly diverse environment, welcoming Māori, Pasifika, rainbow, and disabled youth into the heart of our community. The warm sense of belonging, of being understood, and being supported, this is what we've been striving to offer each young person walking through our doors.

Notable triumphs have been the growth of our membership, the successful launch of the Shore Junction records, our dynamic discord server, and Shore Junction becoming a safe and warm environment for the diverse communities of rangatahi we welcome every day. Shore Junction exists to provide a springboard for our youth, amplifying their voices and talents, allowing them to connect, engage, and create in ways that are relevant in our digital age.

None of this would have been possible without the dedication of our staff (Conin, Annaliese, Connor and Ashe). I am in awe of their relentless energy, creativity, and commitment. Special mention goes to Sonia, whose visionary leadership and sheer tenacity have helped to shape the centre's mission and purpose. They have truly given life to our shared vision.

I am immensely proud of what we have achieved, particularly in our collaboration with external partners. Significant partnerships such as those with Sarah Thorne at ANCAD, who has been wildly supportive from the get-go, Emma Helmich from YouthTown, the YMCA and the countless other youth service providers we’re connected to have added tremendous value to our centre.

As I prepare to pass the baton, I am filled with hope and optimism for the future of Shore Junction. There is so much more to come for this vibrant community hub. While it is bittersweet to bid farewell, I eagerly anticipate the next iteration of Shore Junction, confident that it will continue to nurture and inspire our rangatahi.

My heartfelt thanks go out to all the staff, every stakeholder, every supporter, and every young person who has been part of this journey (Special shout-outs to our day one youth: Talei, Lizzie, Caitlin, Laura, Xavier and Kiera). It is the collective effort, the shared vision, and the unwavering belief in our youth that has made Shore Junction what it is today.

I’d like to leave you with a whakatauki which is the compass in the way I have led as the community and youth development director these past three years; “He aha te mea nui o te ao? He tangata! He tangata! He tangata!” – What is the most important thing in the world? It is people! It is people! It is people!.

Mauri ora.