LIAM MCLEAVEY
NEW ZEALAND, 19
Project: Pathways Horowhenua
Basic Human Needs: Education
While in high school in New Zealand, Liam grew concerned by the rising number of his peers who weren’t moving on to higher education or employment. The youth NEET rate (not in employment, education or training) of 19.4% in the Horowhenua District appalled Liam and drove him to action. In August 2016, he founded Pathways Horowhenua to increase the number of youth in New Zealand who achieve their full potential by connecting young people to resources and opportunities in higher education, vocational training and employment. By forming strong partnerships with businesses and organizations, Liam has created a network valuable for both employers and potential young employees. Pathways Horowhenua has proven to be a solution to the region’s imminent need by assisting 70+ young people into sustainable employment. In 2018, the Provincial Growth Fund granted funds to Pathways Horowhenua, which was the Fund’s first contribution to a project in Horowhenua. They provided Liam with $50,000 USD to lead a feasibility study on the best ways to improve education and youth employment. The activities outlined in Liam’s study are guiding the local and national government on their investments for education and employment strategy for 2020. Moving forward, Liam wants to transform Pathways Horowhenua into a sustainable social enterprise that continues to grow its impact for employers and young talent.