Two former pupils of Tokomairiro High School have been on a mission to provide access and opportunity for youths all around the world — and now they have returned to their school to launch the resulting app.
Dunedin›based Heidi Renata and brother Steven recently launched a free app known as INNOV8HQ for their global youth entrepreneurship programme Mana Rangatahi, funded for people aged between 16 and 24 but aimed at all ages, to bring motivation and direction among youths in the business world.
Late last year, Mana Rangatahi received a $300,000 two›year grant from the Otago Community Trust and partnered with the Transition to Work Trust which financially assisted in the development of the digital application.
Ms Renata wrote the app’s content and her brother’s media production business Kiwa Digital developed it. Recently Ms Renata returned to her former high school Tokomairiro, in Milton, to launch the app, which she described as an ‘‘emotional experience’’.
She and her brother wanted the school to be the first of many to receive the application, as it felt like home for them and would provide the young people of Milton and surrounds with something special to help motivate them to succeed.
‘‘It was very special. It moved me a lot, and I appreciated being able to bring it to where I’ve known as home,’’ she said.
‘‘There were definitely tears, that’s for sure.
‘‘It’s been a mission, but it’s been so worth it for the young generation and for anyone else that may need guidance and assistance,’’ she said.
Ms Renata said she felt a ‘‘passion’’ to make the app as accessible as possible worldwide.
‘‘I am just very excited to be providing this fundamental app for youths both locally and globally to help youths succeed in whatever their ambitions may be.’’
Inquiries regarding the app could be made by emailing events@nullinnov8hq.com, or by calling 03 399 2222.
