Tauranga-based charity Stand Tall is making a lasting impact on the lives of young people across the Bay of Plenty by fostering entrepreneurial and digital skills among those aged 15 to 24.

Now in its third year, Stand Tall offers a comprehensive programme aimed at equipping youth with the tools they need to thrive in today’s rapidly evolving economy.

Stand Tall’s initiatives are tailored to address the specific challenges faced by young people in the region, with a focus on creativity, self-discovery, and innovation.

By providing access to cutting-edge tools, resources, and mentorship, the organisation is helping participants discover their strengths and explore alternative pathways to education and employment.

Operating in key areas such as Tauranga, Rotorua, Kawerau, and Whakatāne, Stand Tall is breaking down barriers that often prevent young people from accessing opportunities.

Their approach promotes connectedness, resilience, and employability, empowering youth to shape their futures with confidence.

“We work with over 300 young people across the Bay of Plenty and spend significant time with each of them,” said Pascale Hyboud-Peron, Stand Tall’s Momentum Generator.

“Our programmes help them realise there are pathways beyond traditional options like university or immediate employment. By focusing on projects they care about, they develop leadership and practical skills that are highly valued in today’s job market.”

Stand Tall Programme Coordinator Manaia Peina. Photo: Supplied.

Through collaborations with schools, community organisations, and local business volunteers, Stand Tall provides hands-on entrepreneurial experiences.

This community-driven model ensures that participants, regardless of their background or prior education, are supported in becoming capable and confident contributors to society.

One of Stand Tall’s success stories is Manaia Peina, a 2022 alumna of the Young Enterprise Scheme, one of the charity’s flagship programmes.

Peina launched a business creating sustainable vegan pleather tote bags during her time with Stand Tall.

Reflecting on the experience, she said, “It was amazing to walk into my first business class without a plan and leave with my own business.”

Today, Peina is paying it forward as Stand Tall’s Programme Coordinator, visiting schools and engaging students in the charity’s initiatives.

The organisation’s reach has expanded significantly, supporting over 300 young people this year—double the number from Peina’s cohort.

In the Western Bay of Plenty alone, Stand Tall has worked with 150 youth, with a growing presence in Te Puke. The charity’s efforts are backed by local funders like TECT, which granted $35,000 to support its operations.

“TECT wants every young person to be equipped to participate in the world,” said TECT Trustee Kate Barry-Piceno.

“We trust that the entrepreneurial and digital skills and experiences these young people are learning through Stand Tall will help them in their future endeavours.”

With its community-driven approach and a growing pool of talented participants, Stand Tall is unlocking the potential of Bay of Plenty’s next generation of leaders and innovators.