Bays Youth Voice emerged in 2022 as a grassroots initiative, founded by Bays in Action and facilitated by youth development coordinator Taylor Lake. Supported by Heart for Youth Trust and the Hibiscus and Bays Local Board, this initiative has quickly become a driving force for positive youth-led development in the Bays area of Tamaki Makarau.

Throughout this year, we've organised and participated in a range of impactful events, including our "Out of the Closet" Pride Month Clothes Swap event, the first of its kind at the East Coast Bays Library, a "Youth Chill Zone" at the Browns Bay Summer Spectacular and our involvement in the Browns Bay Anzac parade.

Reflecting on past collaborations, we've partnered with Henderson Budget Service for Youth Week 2023 and transformed the East Coast Bays Library into a vibrant space during Pride Month. One heartwarming moment was receiving a donated suit during our "Out of the Closet" event in 2024 and discovering that it was a young person's first suit before their transition.
Our mission at Bays Youth Voice is clear: "Youth supporting youth." We amplify young voices and advocate for their needs and desires within our community. Our diverse backgrounds and experiences also fuel the need for a supportive and inclusive environment for all young people.
Joshua, 15, a student at Rangitoto College, shares his perspective: "Having a youth voice allows the younger generation to speak out to the world. Especially in the Bays area, there are so many opportunities to inspire youth and get them involved within the community. It puts the future in good hands and helps us youth grow! That’s why I joined and that’s why it’s important.”
Amy, 18, a former Long Bay College student, joined to broaden her horizons. "I joined Bays Youth Voice to meet some more people around my age. At school I was kind of stuck in a small friend group and I wanted to branch outside of that a bit. Because of that decision I have gotten to be a part of so many amazing opportunities and I can't wait for what's to come!”
Stefan, 19, says, “I joined Bays Youth Voice because I was looking for ways to engage with the community. I believe there needs to be more spaces and opportunities for youth to be supported. We are constantly told how we will guide the future; however, we are given very little support to successfully deal with increasingly stressful responsibilities. That’s why I hope that by joining Bays Youth Voice, I can contribute to creating a better environment for our current and future generations”
We're eager to collaborate with businesses, organisations and community champions, and also find sponsors keen on supporting positive youth-led development here in the Bays area. Our next goal is to activate the East Coast Bays Library’s “Teens' space” as our new youth hub, create a youth-led mural and hold more workshops, events and activities for all young people to join in on.

For inquiries or to get involved, reach us at kiaora.byv@gmail.com or find us on Instagram and Facebook at “Bays Youth Voice”.