Our Young People’s Stories
Here we share the stories of our young people from Bay of Plenty who have had their lives changed by Graeme Dingle Foundation programmes.
Click here to discover more inspiring stories from our alumni.
David's Story
I might look like your ordinary 11 year old but the challenges I have faced and the struggles I have been through is what makes me different. I want to talk about how Kiwi Can helps every Kiwi kid and alternative learners provide skills for building positive relationships and dealing with hard situations.
Read David's Story
Helen's Story
When I was chosen for the Project K programme I was hesitant at first and didn’t understand how a programme could turn my life around, and pull me out of the hole I had dug. I participated in the programme from the start to the end with no regrets.
Read Helen's Story
Alice's Story
After a big move to Tauranga, Alice initially resisted joining Project K. Embracing the challenge, she connected with nature and worked with her mentor to set and achieve goals. Now, Alice is pursuing her dream of becoming a heavy diesel mechanic, feeling motivated and proud of her journey.
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Spencer's Story
In 2020 I completed Project K, an experience that changed my life and that I am extremely grateful for. Before Project K I felt really lost, I felt unsettled and was struggling. After meeting Dan and the team and hearing more about the programme I became excited about the opportunity to learn and grow.
Read Spencer's Story
Mila's Story
I’d have been a fool not to take the opportunity for kai and friendships. So, I did. I started my wilderness adventure with Project K.
Read Mila's Story
Brylee Comer overcomes her shyness
It’s strange to remember I used to be so shy. Going into a shop and ordering by myself, was too much. I really didn’t talk to anyone I didn’t know. Even when I got the call to say I’d been accepted into Project K, I considered declining. Being with a group of people I didn’t know – it all sounded too much for me.
Read Brylee's Story
Sara Kaianga's Project K Journey
It was pretty cool realising I could have independence and do things for myself! Before Project K I was quite shy. When I saw an ambassador speaking at our school I loved her confidence. She said she did lots of speaking and promoting the programme and I was so impressed.
Read Sara's Story
Jess Collins - A young wahine toa
We are extremely proud and pleased to announce that our very own Graeme Dingle Foundation Bay of Plenty Project K alumni Jess Collins received the Prime Minister’s Exemplar Award at this years New Zealand Youth Awards.
Read Jess's Story
Paris' Story: From wagging school to succeeding in life
When Paris was in high school she admits she wasn’t the best student or daughter to her teachers or family. During that time her parents were going through a separation and she was failing school and was wagging most days. Paris was having a hard time dealing with her home situation and found it wasn’t easy to focus at school.
Read Paris's Story