Celebrating a workforce to be reckoned with

The excellence of the district's rangatahi was on display at the Mayors Taskforce for Jobs graduation ceremony.

Mayor Alex Walker was delighted to celebrate the district's emerging and thriving workforce, and honour those committed to supporting and investing in the region's young talent and potential, on Wednesday evening. It was a collaboration between the district’s Mayors Taskforce for Jobs and Waipukurau Rotary Club.

“This ceremony reminds us of the dedication, resilience and talent that exists within the youth in our community, and the many who believe in and nurture that young talent,” said Walker.

“The evidence shows that when our economy is doing it tough, young people in the workforce are the first to lose their jobs and the last to re-enter it. Times are a bit tough out there, but I know many of the businesses here tonight are investing hard in growing our young talent, and I thank you for your confidence and investment in our community’s future.” 

Seven young local achievers were awarded mayoral certificates for completing their Level 2 or higher trade qualifications this year. 

“Each of these graduates has put in the hard work to invest in their future and achieve something great. They are now part of the future workforce that will drive Central Hawke’s Bay forward.” 

Hannah McLeod from Han’s Healthy Fitness in Waipukurau scooped up the Youth Friendly Employer of the Year award for 2024, which six local businesses were nominated for. McLeod was recognised for her supportive, inclusive and encouraging work environment, as well as her nurturing leadership to achieve a healthy work/life balance and professional development for all who work for her. 

Young employee superstar Ella Tweedie took out the 2024 Rotary Young Employee of the Year award and received a scholarship to attend an eight-day Outward Bound Discovery Course. The business savvy marketing assistant at Stephenson & Taylor Ltd stood out among the 19 nominees for her keen attitude, high standard of work and excellent customer relations. 

Lisa Davey of Launch Active in Waipukurau and Liam Johnson of AMC Engineering Ltd were awarded highly recommended, and David Howard of Silver Fern Farms in Takapau won the Aspiring Young Employee of the Year award. All three received a RYLA (Rotary Young Leadership Award) scholarship to attend a national four-day young leadership course. 

Presenting the awards alongside fellow Rotarian Donald Cooper, Rotary President David Tilyard acknowledged Central Hawke’s Bay College and its Gateway programme, which has offered a pathway of employment to many school leavers over the years, including a number of this year’s nominees. 

“The evening’s awards shine a light on the collaborative efforts in our district to cultivate and celebrate young talent. Rotary is honoured to stand alongside Council in recognising the promising young people who are not only dedicated to their own growth but are an inspiration to others.

“I’m very confident that the long-term future of our community is in great hands!”

7 November 2024

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