An Otago Community Trust (OCT) fund which offers grants of up to $5,000 for youth-focused activities has opened for applications for 2024.

The Rangatahi-Led Fund for Central Otago is part of OCT’s $10M Tamariki & Rangatahi Strategy, which provides grants for youth-led projects that benefit young people, with recommendations made by young people for young people.

“Rangatahi have bold visions for shaping the future and it’s important we give them a seat at the table,” OCT engagement advisor Liz Haburg said. 

Last year, in the fund's inaugural year, it supported projects from youth networking spaces to all-ages events and gatherings for queer and gender diverse rangatahi.

One of its recipients was the Upper Clutha Youth Council, which received funding for the development of a mural at the new Kahu Youth space at Paetara Aspiring Central.

Read more: ‘Mural to bring Kahu Youth space to life’

Rangatahi leaders from each region are at the helm of the fund, steering its purpose and criteria. 

They will collaborate with the OCT on the final funding outcomes for grants up to $5,000 that will support innovative youth-led initiatives administered by eligible organisations.

Chirlene Vorster, one of the rangatahi from the Central Otago rōpū, said she was grateful to have the opportunity to be part of the group for a second year

“Being part of something that you know is changing someone else's life and seeing the positive effects this group has had on our communities, has been my highlight by far,” she said.

The OCT invites rangatahi in Central Otago (including the Upper Clutha) to apply for funding from the Rangatahi-Led Fund for Central Otago. 

They can find more information and apply online at the OCT website or contact the group via email [email protected] to ask any questions.

PHOTO: Quentin Smith