Encourage creative thinking for the next generation
We know that our rangatahi care about the big stuff - climate change, mental health, food security and more.
Existing as part of the broader Priority One Talent Strategy, the school integrated programme allows rangatahi to experience Design Thinking, embrace their big ideas, grow future-proof skills and resilience, and prepare for the Future of Work.
Having a dedicated Design Thinking programme like yia! creates space for students to craft real-world solutions to problems that are important to them.
With yia! anything is possible! The programme is fun, inclusive, and completely free. 2024 marks 15 years of the yia! programme.
For students
At yia! we believe that everyone is creative, and everyone is an innovator. We’re here to help you unleash your creativity!
Experience hands-on innovation and arm yourself with the skills you need in the future. Discover new opportunities, develop ideas and
research solutions to create new products and services that make a difference.
You could even take home a cash prize and get the chance to participate in an internship!
For schools and teachers
Participating schools are often seen as leaders in education.
Design Thinking is a critical skill that students can develop through the yia! programme, providing them with skills required for the future of work – resilience, empathy, teamwork, and communication skills.
The yia! programme is embedded within participating schools, which are seen as leaders in education.
What is yia!?
Our Mission
To instil a culture of innovation in local schools, preparing our future workforce with the skills they need through Design Thinking.
We believe this will equip young people thrive in a rapidly changing work context.
Our Vision
Creating Tomorrow’s Innovators
Our Aim
To establish Tauranga Moana as New Zealand’s leading region for innovation in education.
For parents
yia! provides your young person with a unique opportunity to unleash their creativity, connect with talented innovators, and learn about the future of work.
Focussing on the Design Thinking process, students learn essential skills like resilience, empathy, teamwork and communication skills. With involvement in yia!, young people can showcase their innovation, leadership and problem-solving skills to potential employers and education institutions.
For businesses
The yia! programme has the potential to transform the Bay of Plenty region into a hub for innovation, providing young people with the skills, tools, and knowledge to become the innovative thinkers of tomorrow.
As a participating judge, partner or sponsor, you can play a critical role in driving this change and shaping the future of our community.
yia! is an excellent way to give back to the community and showcase your business values.