Jordan is a youth coach at Number 10, Southland Youth One Stop Shop in Invercargill, which provides one to one and group mentoring, advocacy, and facilitates school and holiday programmes. On top of his youth coaching role, Jordan is also contracted by Ara Taiohi as a Mana Taiohi programme facilitator around Aotearoa. 

Number 10 was a grant recipient in the recent Thriving in Murihiku Fund, and Ara Taiohi, the national peak body for youth development in Aotearoa has been a long term partner of Te Rourou, One Aotearoa Foundation. 

Jordan’s work is all about addressing the challenges the Southland’s youth are facing and finding connections with the young people he supports. Many are disengaged at school or facing issues at home and this is something Jordan can relate to, being one of eight children raised by a hardworking solo mum. 

“I think because of my age the kids I help can relate to me,” Jordan says, “and because of my background I can relate to them.” Many of the rangatahi Jordan works with don’t have a close male role model at home. Or they may be doing it tough at school. Helping them find a focus or that one little spark that drives them forward is Jordan’s passion.

“I’ll chat with them and encourage them to find something they can get excited about. Even if

it’s just trying out for the school sports team, it’s something that can help them get excited about life and school again” he says.

“I’ve really appreciated the opportunity to be involved with Te Rourou,” says Jordan. “I’ve learned so much and it’s the rangatahi of Invercargill who’ll benefit. I’m excited about putting the mentoring skills I’ve learned to work for my community,” he adds.