In December 2024, the Springboard and the Arise Academy community gathered to celebrate a milestone achievement—the graduation of six extraordinary young people who have successfully completed their New Zealand Certificate in Foundation Skills (Level 2). This marks not only the culmination of this step in their academic journey but also a testament to the power of community, support, and resilience.
From left to right: Nicole Robins (Arise Academy Operations Manager), Aaliyah Phillips (Graduate), Madison (Madi) Hunt (Springboard Youth Coach), Jos Fox (Arise Academy Programme Manager/Tutor), Destiny Tonga (Graduate) and Sade Brash (Graduate).
Madison (Madi) Hunt, a youth coach at Springboard, spoke with heartfelt words about the importance of youth services. "Our goal is to journey alongside young people, helping them with education, employment, and being someone in their corner," she said. Earlier this year, the Springboard team dreamed of creating drop-in sessions—a welcoming space for youth to come together, especially those feeling isolated, to build community, relationships, and connection with youth coaches as support people.
This dream became a reality through an incredible partnership with Arise Academy, and generous sponsorship from Jagriti Foundation. For the first time, Springboard was able to offer its youth the opportunity to complete a Level 2 Foundation Skills course. Madi highlighted how pivotal this programme has been: "We provided a space for youth to come in as who they are, and these sessions were transformative—not only in achieving an academic certificate but in helping them develop as individuals."
Destiny, one of the graduating learners, shared her moving journey: "Getting my Level 2’s was easier than I thought, especially because learning in school was so hard—it was too much pressure. Being at Springboard, I was motivated to be myself and stay true to who I am." Reflecting on her growth, she added, "Before I started with Arise Academy, I was lost and confused about what I wanted to do in my life. Being here has built friendships, happiness, and opportunities. Now, I am even considering becoming a youth coach." Destiny's story is a shining example of how education, paired with a supportive environment, can transform lives.
Jos Fox, Arise Academy tutor, expressed immense pride in the graduates. "To start, the youth were shy, unsure about study, and not sure who I was," she said. "But you showed up, kept coming, and gave it a go. Bit by bit, you let me in, shared pieces of yourself in your assignments, and had the strength to be vulnerable. I hope you’re proud of yourselves—your commitment and hard work have paid off."
Jos highlighted the course’s focus on self-discovery, personal growth, and life skills. "The Level 2 course is about discovering your passions and strengths, building self-management and communication skills, and finding your identity. It’s about setting goals and learning how to overcome challenges," she explained.
This programme represents a first-of-its-kind collaboration between Springboard and Arise Academy. Springboard provided laptops and a supportive environment, while Jos and the Arise team offered tailored academic guidance. Together, they created a nurturing space where learners could thrive academically and personally.
As the ceremony closed, the message was clear: these graduates have not only earned a qualification but have gained confidence, friendships, and a vision for their futures. The partnership between Springboard and Arise Academy has set a new standard for what’s possible when we work together to empower youth.
Congratulations to the graduates—your achievements are a testament to your resilience, hard work, and the community that believes in you, and you are inspirational to the next cohort who are eager to get started. Go well, ka pai tau mahi!
To learn more about the Arise Academy's New Zealand Certificate in Foundation Skills (Level 2) programme, please see Foundation Studies | Arise Academy, or reach out and contact us today on enrol@ariseacademy.ac.nz
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