‘ManaVā’ Fund Launches To Support Pasifika Youth From South Auckland

Community groups or individuals passionate about youth mental wellbeing in South Auckland are invited to apply for the inaugural ManaVā fund, which was co-designed by young people themselves. 

In partnership with philanthropic funder Foundation North, a panel of five rangatahi will distribute grants to grassroots projects that support Pasifika youth health and wellbeing. This youth advisory panel includes Whenua Manukau, Nafeesah Mustafa, Madison Leilua, Riria Makara and Caleb Singh – all leaders of The Cause Collective’s Do Good Feel Good initiative, which fosters youth-led social change across South Auckland. 

“ManaVā allows young people to be the change they want to see in the world,” Singh says.

“Our panel know the next generation is ready to take the baton, carrying on the work of those before us. No idea is too big or too small, so as long as the passion is there to do good by our families and villages, please do apply.” 

Over several months, the ManaVā panel met to decide the fund’s purpose, objectives and assessment criteria. They were supported by Foundation North and The Cause Collective staff, to ensure the fund reflects the aspirations of Pasifika young people in South Auckland. 

Foundation North Head of Funding Audry McLaren says the foundation is thrilled to be working in collaboration with The Cause Collective, and is excited by the launch of ManaVā.

“We share The Cause Collective’s vision of intergenerational wellbeing of Pasifika peoples in South Auckland,” McLaren says. 

“When our young people have the chance to channel their wisdom, insights and Pasifika cultural values into the design of funding opportunities for their communities, we know how powerful that can be and it really is something to be celebrated.” 

The ManaVā fund totals $200,000, with grants of up to $20,000 available to individuals and groups based in South Auckland. Projects must aim to improve the health and wellbeing of Pasifika youth. 

Applications are open now and will close on Sunday 9th November. For the terms and conditions of ManaVā and to apply, visit https://thecausecollective.org.nz/campaigns/manava/