Voices of Hope Visit

This Monday 22nd June 2026, our Year 10 and 11 students were fortunate enough to hear from Jazz Thornton and Genevieve Mora, founders of Voices of Hope, alongside Paula Fakalata. Together, they shared powerful and inspiring personal stories that highlighted an important message; asking for help does not make you weak, it makes you smart. 

Voices of Hope is a New Zealand mental health charity dedicated to creating positive change, reducing stigma, and providing support through the power of lived-experience storytelling. They travel around the country visiting schools and encouraging students to have open conversations about mental health and to seek support when they need it.

At a stage in life where many young people face challenges and pressures, understanding how and where to access help is incredibly important. The knowledge, connections, and messages shared by the Voices of Hope team resonated with many students, reminding us that no one has to face difficult times alone.

We are incredibly grateful to Jazz, Genevieve, and Paula for taking the time to visit our school and for sharing their experiences. Their presentation left a lasting impact and reinforced the importance of looking after our mental wellbeing. 

Remember, asking for help is a sign of strength. Students can reach out to your manutaki to book time with a school counselor. Additional support is available through Youthline, they offer free, confidential support 24/7. Call 0800 376 633 or text 234 to talk with someone.

Sophie Wynne

Find out more at:

www.thevoicesofhope.org.

Further resources / support can be found here:

https://findahelpline.com/