"All I wanted to do was stand and salute you, to thank you for teaching us today...for putting fire in our bellies.”
Judge Ida Malosi’s words rang through the room as she closed the Youth-led Transformative Justice Conference this past weekend.
The stories from the rangatahi were raw, honest, and transformative.
Their insights remind us that solutions to systemic issues cannot come from those removed from the problem. Instead, they must come from those who live and breathe these realities daily.
This year’s conference, hosted by rangatahi, brought together judges, police, youth advocates, and community leaders. The goal: to hear directly from rangatahi about their lived experiences and their vision for a more just, equitable system.
Conference Overview & Insights
The New Bill of Rights for Tamariki impacted by Whānau Incarceration
Rangatahi unveiled their revised Bill of Rights for Tamariki Impacted by Whānau Incarceration, a bold document rooted in whakapapa, cultural identity and mana-enhancing principles.
“The original fails to reflect our realities, our cultures, and our futures,” shared one rangatahi. "It does not reflect the values of whānau, whakapapa or Te Reo Māori. Nor does it address the challenges or aspirations unique to us as rangatahi."
The Bill is both a blueprint for future policy change and a resource to help tamariki and rangatahi understand their rights, from maintaining connections to their whakapapa to accessing safe and nurturing environments.
Whānau Navigator and reaching more rangatahi
Youth crime: The Ram Raid Bill
Military Boot Camps and alternative solutions
Whānau Navigator role & Children’s Support Plans
Carrying the Stories of Rangatahi Forward
The Youth-led Transformative Justice Conference was more than just a gathering—it was a call to action.
As Dr. Claire Achmad, the Chief Children’s Commissioner, reminded everyone in her kōrero:
"I want every to be behind the voices of rangatahi in our country, because there is power in the voices of rangatahi. You are bringing hope in the ways that you are bringing forward your views to help shape change...And the knowledge that you hold is the key to us making change for other children and young people who have a parent in prison."
The conference was just one step on a much longer journey toward justice reform, requiring the collective effort of communities, policymakers, and advocates.
It is up to each of us to carry these stories forward—not just as listeners but as active participants in creating change.
So, what can you do?
Listen to their insights with open hearts and minds.
Share their stories to raise awareness and inspire action.
Advocate for policy and systemic changes prioritising the wellbeing and rights of all tamariki and rangatahi.
Let their courage and wisdom ignite a fire in all of us to keep pushing for meaningful change. Watch this space—together, we are creating a more positive future.
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