Every young person’s journey is unique, and we are proud to celebrate the milestones achieved along the way. The success stories shared here reflect the resilience, determination, and growth of the youth we work with at Marlborough Youth Trust.
These stories highlight what is possible when young people are given the right support, encouragement, and opportunities to succeed.
Friendships, Challenges, and Big Wins
Talofa lava,
One thing I really liked about MYT CACTUS was the friendships I made, especially with people I never thought I would become close to. I was the only girl from my year at school in my group, so I was really nervous at the start. Even though I knew a couple of older girls, it was still nerve-wracking. However, I got to know everyone pretty quickly and we soon became CACTUS buddies. I think we bonded so well because we were all supporting and encouraging each other throughout the programme. The longest day was the most memorable experience, and it was really awesome to see how much my teammates improved in their fitness testing in our last week.
I gained a lot of leadership and teamwork skills. I learned how to communicate better and work with a wide range of people who all had different strengths and weaknesses. The longest day really showed me how important teamwork is, because the only way to succeed was to support one another. This meant encouraging each other to keep going and stepping in to help by carrying extra load when someone in the group was struggling.
When my parents first told me I was doing CACTUS, I was honestly really frustrated because it wasn’t something I wanted to do. But, to my surprise it only took me a couple of sessions before I really started to enjoy it. Even in the sessions when we had to do lots of sprints, I still enjoyed it! I’m proud of myself for staying positive and giving it a go, even when it was challenging and outside my comfort zone. I’m especially proud of how much I improved in the fitness testing, and completing the longest day was a huge achievement for me. I would definitely recommend CACTUS to others, even if you feel scared or unsure at first. Morgan and the MYT team will push you, but they also support you and help you become the best version of yourself and you learn skills you can take into your future.
Kai pai Izzy!!!
Turning Opportunities into Achievements
One rangatahi reflected that what they appreciated most about MYT was being able to come in, express their doubts, and have open, honest conversations without feeling judged. Through the programme, they gained valuable qualifications, including their Full Class 1 licence and the Wheels, Tracks and Rollers endorsement, which have strengthened their confidence and prepared them to enter the workforce. When asked what they are most proud of, they shared that they are proud of how far they have come and how MYT has helped them grow and improve as a individual. Thanks, RB Recruitment, for the opportunities.
Confidence, Skills, and First Wins
Huge congratulations to one of our Rangatahi who has been working with us over the past six months, who has gained full-time employment with Courier post!
When asked what the best part of being at Marlborough youth trust was, he said: “The banter and laughs with staff and youth.”
With support from MYT, this young person achieved some massive milestones — including gaining his Dangerous Goods ticket and Wheels, Tracks, and Rollers endorsements.
He also shared another awesome win:
“After getting some great advice about KiwiSaver, I’ve now started my KiwiSaver and bought my first car!” 
And when we asked what he’s most proud of from his journey with the Marlborough Youth Trust, he said: “I’m most proud that I built my confidence and had enough self-belief to get back into the workforce with the support of MYT. I really feel like life is good.”
We couldn’t be prouder — your determination, mahi, and willingness to back yourself have led to huge achievements. Keep going, keep growing, and keep believing in what you’re capable of.
