A group of young people from Tenby have had a transformative trip to New Zealand.
The youngsters from Ysgol Greenhill were part of the We Know, Our Journey Youth project, led by Plan International.
The project, fully funded by Taith, a Welsh Government initiative, is aimed at creating opportunities for learning, studying, and volunteering worldwide.
The trip aimed to widen perspectives, encourage personal growth, and enhance understanding of gender-based violence and its global impact.
The group was invited on the trip as recognition of their dedication to combating gender-based violence in their community.
During their two-week venture, the group explored New Zealand’s stunning landscapes and rich culture, including Auckland, Rotarua, Waitomo, Taupo, and Hamilton and learned about Māori culture.
The group also spent time at Blue Light camps, engaging in outdoor activities and team-building exercises.
Blue Light works in partnership with the police to deliver a range of youth programmes and activities, to reduce the incidence of young people becoming an offender or victim of crime, and encourage better relations in the community.
At Lake Taupo, they enjoyed a boat cruise, admiring the stunning scenery and ancient Māori rock carvings.
The pupils visited a number of places (Image: Pembrokeshire County Council)
Throughout their journey, the group participated in meetings with organisations working to address gender-based violence.
They learned about the initiatives these organisations are taking and presented their efforts in Wales.
One such organisation was LeVa, where they experienced a warm Somali welcome and immersed themselves in Somali culture.
The day was described as inspirational, insightful and filled with emotion.
The group also had the opportunity to spend a day with New Zealand Rugby, learning about their initiatives to promote gender equity and positive social change within the sport and the broader community.
They also met with Dear Em, a strong, driven group providing safe spaces for women and girls to have a voice in New Zealand.
The group has formed a new collective, “Our Voice Our Journey,” and plans to continue their work on gender-based violence back in Tenby.
One member of the group said: “Going to New Zealand helped me get a more positive mindset.
“By seeing how other organisations across the world also wanted to prevent violence, it made me realise we are all in it together.”
The experience has empowered these young people to become leaders in their community, advocating for gender equality and working towards a brighter future for all.