Mana Hapori: Collective Strength of the Community

Mana Hapori represents the strength, influence, and leadership potential within our communities. It is INNOV8HQ’s dedicated platform for partnering with iwi, schools, youth organisations, tertiary institutions, and government agencies to co-deliver impactful, future-focused programmes. Grounded in culture and driven by innovation,

Mana Hapori delivers leadership and entrepreneurship experiences that empower rangatahi, whānau, and communities to thrive in a fast-changing world. From building digital capability to developing creative problem-solvers and confident leaders, our programmes are designed to grow local talent and unlock long-term potential. Whether you’re supporting youth development, education, regional growth, or social innovation — Mana Hapori is a powerful pathway to help communities lead their own success.
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INNOV8HQ is proud to partner with Southern Youth Development (SYD) to deliver the Mana Rangatahi Activator Programme - an innovative move that expands youth development in the South and introduces a fresh, future-ready mindset to the region.

This partnership brings a dynamic new layer of networks and capability to SYD’s existing mahi, work - placing entrepreneurial thinking, cultural identity, and leadership development as some of the key elements for youth experiences.

‍Why It Matters

‍The world has changed, and so have the skills our rangatahi need to thrive. This programme reflects a shift from traditional education models to ones that value self-leadership, creativity, adaptability, and cultural connection. Entrepreneurship is no longer just a buzzword - it’s a mindset. One that empowers young people to design their own futures and respond to the challenges of tomorrow.

‍About the Mana Rangatahi Activator

‍The Mana Rangatahi Activator is a one-day leadership and innovation experience, supported by follow-up mentoring and access to the Mana Rangatahi Kete - a digital platform designed to support lifelong capability.It serves as an introduction to the award-winning Mana Rangatahi Programme, which has supported hundreds of youth across Aotearoa to step into their potential.

‍What This Partnership Delivers

Expanded Capability for SYD
‍A proven entrepreneurial development pathway now embedded in youth programming.
Real-World Skills for Youth
Leadership, innovation, and identity-building tools delivered in an engaging and culturally safe way.
Regional Access, National Quality
‍Youth across the Southern region can now tap into a programme recognised for its impact nationwide.
Long-Term Pathways
The Activator creates a stepping stone into deeper opportunities — from further learning to enterprise development.
The Future Is Youth-Led

‍Together, INNOV8HQ and SYD are redefining what success looks like for rangatahi, creating spaces where they can grow, lead, and reimagine what’s possible. Because when young people are equipped with the right tools, mindset, and support - they don’t just follow the path. They build it.

He Kupu | Voices from the Partnership

‍"This partnership is about planting seeds — helping rangatahi see what’s possible for them, right here in their own communities. The Activator Programme opens the door to bigger dreams, deeper identity, and powerful future pathways."
- Heidi Renata, Founder & Chief Energy Officer, INNOV8HQ

‍"SYD is proud to be part of this kaupapa. Partnering with INNOV8HQ allows us to offer something truly unique — a programme that grows with our youth, starting from a spark of inspiration and evolving into real opportunity." -  Mike Tonks, Acting CEO, Southern Youth Development

Registrations are now open for the Mana Rangatahi Activator - click here