Samuela’s peers show they reckon he’s choice
Dedicates his win to family and friends
“When they called out my name that I won the Peers' Choice award I was shocked because there were so many people to choose from and they chose me,” said Samuela Taufeulungaki (15) on his win at the recent Blue Light Life Skills Camp in Taupo held on August 22 to 26.
“I didn't even win that for myself, I won that for my family, friends, church, school, and the community.”
Samuela, who attends Waiopehu College, was voted by his fellow peers, Defence Force and Blue Light staff to win the Peers' Choice Award.
Blue Light youth worker/mentor Daniel Bromley said Samuela was won the award through his efforts to foster a team environment, encouragement and respectful communication with fellow team members. Patrick Pritchard, Physical Education and Duke of Edinburgh Hillary Award lead from Waiopehu College who referred Samuela said, “The students were taught the basics of regimental marching, proper etiquette when interviewing for a job, car maintenance as well as various life skills that will benefit them throughout and after secondary school.
“Our students had nothing but praise for the camp, although they did admit that they were nervous at the start due to the intensity and challenges on the first two days.
“Each student overcame fears and demonstrated resilience putting themselves out of their comfort zone and giving things such as high ropes and white water rafting a go despite the concerns they expressed”.
Samuela, who was fulfilling part of his Duke of Edinburgh Hillary award requirements, said he was glad he went.
“They changed the old me into a new person. They also helped me build my confidence in myself and we must work as a team and look after each other, some people don't like others because of how they look or because they can't do much stuff but I was able to work with each and every one of them.
“Because you can change someone's life by being the best example around them and doing the right thing.”
This highly successful programme has been run by New Zealand Blue Light in partnership with NZ Defence Force for the past 12 years and has adventure-based experiential learning as a key part of the programme.
The programme provides 14-17-year olds' critical life skills such as self-development, self-control, and teamwork that will enable young people to be successful at home, school, communities, and employment.
Up to 12 courses are held each year in Auckland, Central North Island and Burnham locations.
For more information about the Blue Light Life Skills camps visit bluelight.co.nz.
Blue Light is grateful for the support of the sponsorship of the Lion Foundation and community supporters.