Driving forward skills
Three Maori and Pasifika motor apprentices are showing that giving back can start early by using their skills to repair a damaged Toyota Aqua to help other rangatahi stay connected to their education.
The refurbished vehicle has been donated to the InZone Education Foundation, a charity focused on removing barriers so teenagers can access high-performing schools and succeed.
The car will support students to get to and from school and take part in related activities, while also providing a safe, practical way for them to learn to drive.
Apprentices Hura Tigua, Carlos Murray and Sonny Vagana, who are sponsored by AA Insurance, carried out the repairs, contributing their growing skills to a project that will make a practical difference.
“It feels good knowing something we’ve worked on is going to help someone else,” says Hura. “It makes you proud.”
With the cost of parts covered and the project co-ordinated by AA Insurance, the initiative also reflects a commitment to creating pathways into automotive trades while supporting local communities.
The vehicle, pictured below, was officially handed over at AA Insurance’s customer service centre in west Auckland following a powhiri to welcome the InZone Education Foundation, bringing together apprentices, whanau and community leaders in a moment grounded in connection and shared purpose.
Jared Nordstrom, chief executive of the foundation, says the impact of initiatives such as this goes beyond the car itself.
“This is about creating opportunity. For our rangatahi, something as practical as access to a vehicle can make a real difference by helping them get to school, access opportunities, learn to drive and stay connected to their goals.”
Each apprentice brought a unique journey into the project. Hura and Carlos came through Te Waharoa – Gateway to the Trades, a programme developed by MITO and Waikato-Tainui to support young people into sustainable careers.
For Sonny, the project carried a personal connection. His father, who worked in AA Insurance’s motoring team, played a key role in introducing his uncle, Weaver, to the trade. Today, the latter is mentoring Sonny and supporting the next generation.
“My uncle has mentored me throughout this journey and being able to use my skills to help other rangatahi makes me proud of the industry I’m part of,” says Sonny.
Beau Paparoa, head of motor claims at AA Insurance, says: “At its heart, this initiative is a story of kotahitanga – rangatahi supporting their own communities. Our apprentices are not only building their skills in the workshop, they are making a real contribution beyond it.
“This project shows what’s possible when we invest in young people and create opportunities for them to give back.
“We’re proud to partner with repairers and suppliers the Drive Group, Turners, Auckland Mobile Locksmith and Eurosparx, which played a key role in supporting these apprentices and bringing this project to life.”
