Area201 a winner

Area201, the premises rented by the Stratford District Youth Council, was a resounding success during Youth Week (23-30 May).

“It was a lot of work,” says Ngawai Matthews, Youth Council Chairman, “but it was worth it. The response from the Stratford youth has been amazing, and the support of local businesses has been incredible.”

Area201 was a response to Youth Week, with the theme for 2009 being “building relationships and making time for youth”.

The Youth Council began building relationships with local businesses that helped out by providing furniture, supplies and activities for Area201.

Time for youth was made in the mornings, with free breakfasts all week, and after school with dance workshops, cooking lessons, and aerobics. Evenings saw a quiz night, arts showcase, games night, combined youth church service, and movie night.

Each event was well-attended, with young people appreciating the opportunity to be themselves in their own space. “At times the numbers of young people at Area201 were quite amazing,” Ngawai says. “People have been saying we should have a place like this all the time. Feedback is been really positive.”
Area201 was only open during Youth Week. However, the idea for something more permanent has not been lost. “The Youth Council are on to it,” Ngawai says.