Zeal grant a boost for Hamilton youth

A $500,000 grant will kick-start construction of a youth-focussed facility in central Hamilton.

Youth organisation Zeal, supported by Hamilton City Council to provide a youth-focussed arts and creative hub in the central city, has secured the grant from the Lotteries Community Facility Fund.

The organisation will use the grant to fit out a large warehouse space on Ward Lane, where performers and artists can develop their skills. It will be the third Zeal facility in New Zealand.

Mayor Julie Hardaker welcomed the announcement of Zeal’s grant, saying it was a significant boost for Hamilton’s young people.

“This is fantastic news. It reinforces the confidence funders and society have in Zeal, and will help inspire and stimulate Hamilton’s young artists, musicians and performers,” she says.

Zeal CEO Brook Turner says the organisation is excited about getting started on its site in February, with an aim of having it completed by July 2013.

“Our vision is to positively influence every New Zealand young person through
the creative arts,” Mr Turner says.

“We believe young people aren't a problem to be solved, but potential to be harnessed and encouraged. The creative arts are a great vehicle for young people to express themselves as they figure out life.”

Zeal has also announced the appointment of Pete Allely as Manager of its Hamilton facility.

“There is no shortage of young talent in Hamilton,” Mr Allely says.

“Zeal Hamilton will be a creative hub for young photographers, film-makers, musicians, audio engineers, graphic designers, and event managers to up-skill, collaborate, and get a real creative leg up.”