25 June 2012

What's your dream job helping New Zealand Youth?

The Vodafone New Zealand Foundation is calling for passionate people with a desire to make a difference to apply for its World of Difference programme.

The World of Difference programme pays recipients' salaries and expenses, enabling them to work full-time for a youth-related charity of their choice for one year – and to turn their dreams for young Kiwis into realities. Recognising the importance of technology, this year's applicants are encouraged to think about ways mobile and digital innovation may achieve or enhance outcomes.

A total of 12 places are available this year. Celebrating ten years of World of Difference, the Vodafone New Zealand Foundation will fund ten spaces; in partnership with the Christchurch Earthquake Appeal Trust, an additional two World of Difference Canterbury Fund places are also being offered for projects that address an earthquake-related need.

World of Difference provides both financial and professional development support to successful applicants. Junior Tavai, a current World of Difference recipient, works with teenage fathers at HealthWest in West Auckland. He explains: "The funding and support from Vodafone has allowed me to focus on an area I feel passionate about, and to grow as a leader. Vodafone's professional support and regular huis to network and collaborate with other recipients have been invaluable in helping me achieve better outcomes for young dads and their families."

65 recipients from across New Zealand have participated in the scheme since its introduction, working with a wide range of issues and initiatives on programmes working with teen parents, youth in transition, young change makers and emerging leaders. Projects have been innovative and sometimes a little risky, from developing a programme to work with young female sexual offenders to using performing arts as a way to connect rangatahi to their culture.

To find out more or to submit an online application, visit http://foundation.vodafone.co.nz/world-of-difference. Entries open 25 June 2012, and close Friday 3 August 2012, 5pm. Successful applicants will begin their World of Difference positions between 1 January 2013 to 31 March 2013.