TITLE: 2025 JAM Is Wrapping Up!

JAM is a South Auckland programme aimed at empowering youth and reducing conflict and bullying in their communities. Set up more than a decade ago to address tensions between three schools, JAM has grown into a powerful model for youth leadership and connection. Over the past two years, The Y’s Raise Up has supported the programme and in 2025 took on a lead role. The impact is clear, since its beginnings, the conflict between schools in the region has significantly decreased.

JAM is a great way for young people across these schools to connect, develop their leadership skills, improve their circle of mana and find ways to best support their communities. The initiative was run during Term 3 on Wednesday mornings from 6 am -9am with each session beginning with exercise, moving onto educationband ending with shared kai (food).

As JAM wraps up for 2025, a new cohort of young leaders is stepping forward, advocating for respect, connection and positive change in their communities. This initiative shows that when youth are supported in uplifting, strengths-based ways, they not only avoid conflict but also actively lead the movement towards safer, more connected schools.

Get Involved

The Y’s Raise Up is proud to champion JAM and the difference it’s making. If you’re in the region and have skills to offer, or would like to support future JAM sessions, please contact brandon.phillips@ymcanorth.org.nz. Together, we can continue to empower youth and build stronger communities.