Our Mission
Mentoring is our core business. The end game across all our programs is that young people will:
KNOW who they are - one’s identity, purpose, values and beliefs
GROW in character and resilience through careers and personal development
SOW into others through leadership and service
Our craft is in the how. We embrace our unique Pasifika identity to innovate mediums of inspiration, influence and impact that calls out the talented, resilient and confident young leaders of today.
Our Values
Our ways of knowing, being and doing are underpinned by our core Pasifika values.
Our Strategy
Our roadmap to what we do towards a thriving generation of Pasifika Young People
Our Story
Charis Youth and Community was established in 2013 on the lands of the Wurundjeri People of the Kulin Nation - Melbourne Australia.
Charis Youth and Community was founded by Tia and Taua Suemai out of a heart and passion to see young people not settle for anything less than their best. Both Tia and Taua were born and raised in New Zealand and are of Samoan descent and both come from a background in education, youth and community development. Together they combined their passions and skills to help fulfill a growing need for Maori and Pasifika Young People in Melbourne.
Since 2013 there have been many young peoples lives impacted and so much growth, development and milestones achieved as a Pasifika grass roots community organisation. In 2022, the founders returned to their home country of New Zealand and have evolved and expanded their services in New Zealand.
Charis Youth and Community head office is now based in New Zealand and continue to operate their services across Australia and New Zealand.