There were opportunities galore, including a career in policing for Horowhenua rangatahi at the Future Pathways Expo held last Thursday in Levin.
The Expo, held at Te Takeretanga o Kura-hau-pō (Levin Community Centre) connected youth with employers, training providers and social services to help them dream big and plan their futures.
There were more than 40 interactive stalls, inside and outside the centre.
Levin Community Senior Constable Simon (Sye) Carter was one of the local staff helping at the Police stall outside and says hundreds of young people and their families attended the expo.
“We made many positive connections with youth throughout the day,” he says.
“Several young people who have completed the Police Pathways Programme, and other college programmes, are now considering a future as a police officer.
“We were one of around 47 stalls at the expo and our 105 colleagues from Kāpiti had a stall inside.”
Throughout the day, about 800 youth visited the expo from various colleges and other educational facilities, as well as many members of the public.
Police pup Iha seemed to enjoy being centre of attention on the day, but sadly her attempts to lick one of the CPR mannequins to life at the St John's stall came to nothing.
The expo was a collaboration by the Mayors Taskforce for Jobs initiative, Horowhenua District Council, Ministry of Social Development and community partners.
“We had the Mobile Police Base at our stall, and this was complemented with interactive activities including the jump test and grip strength,” says Simon.
“Both tests were a popular activity and encouraged healthy competition amongst several groups of students who also wanted to practice their layup basketball jumping skills at the same time.
“We also had two police puppies come along and support our stall, which helped draw the crowds to our area.
“Overall, we had an awesome day and got the opportunity to hang out with some great people.”
