Accelerator 2021 programme to be led by Wellness Advocate Paul Rangiwahia

Taranaki Future’s successful internship and mentoring programme, Accelerator will be led by local wellness advocate Paul Rangiwahia in 2021.

“After having to put our 2020 progamme on hold due to COVID-19, Accelerator 2021 is something to get excited about with local wellness advocate Paul Rangiwahia leading the mentoring side of the programme,” says Taranaki Futures Chair Steve Scott.

Designed to help improve the pathway between education and employment, Accelerator provides rangatahi with a chance to experience what the world of work is really like by spending time with Taranaki’s industry leaders learning about their sectors. This is followed by time as a group reflecting on their experiences with Paul and then hearing from guest speakers addressing key employability skills.

 “What I like about Accelerator is that it is more than a work experience programme, it has real conversations about resilience, communication, wellness and leadership,” says Paul Rangiwahia.

Paul Rangiwahia is an artist, speaker and wellness advocate most well-known for his thought-provoking Mental W.O.F artwork chock-a-block full of common sense wellness messages.

Supported by New Plymouth District Council, the Accelerator programme was started by former MP Jonathan Young in 2016.

How does it work?

Each Tuesday during term two of the school year small groups of students visit with industry to learn about different jobs, ask questions and gain real-world insight into what it is really like working in the industry. This is followed by coaching, led by Paul Rangiwahia, and guest speakers who address key employment topics such as the importance of good communication and how to build resilience. Contact your careers teacher or complete this expression of interest form to find out more.