Judging by most of the young people I meet, New Zealand’s future looks bright. As I travel around the country I’m constantly impressed by the enthusiasm and energy of our youth. They’re ambitious for themselves and they make me optimistic for New Zealand.
I believe that the future of a country, especially a young country like New Zealand, is built on its youth. Young people are the lifeblood of any community. They have enthusiasm, energy, a willingness to get things done – and the courage to try different approaches to old problems.
But those who get knocked back or get the wrong messages during the crucial early years can quickly lose confidence.
Sports clubs are a great way of guarding against that. On the sports field, anyone can achieve if they’re willing to work hard. Bowl out that crack lefthander, and you might be man of the match. Hit a century and the accolades will come your way.
I believe sport has a huge role to play in the development of our youth. Sport teaches us mental and physical resilience. Not everything that happens on the sporting field will be a success – one day you might drop an easy catch and feel embarrassed. It’s how you pick yourself up after the experience that counts.
Sport keeps us fit and energetic. It teaches us teamwork, gives us the chance to prove ourselves and build self-confidence, and most of all, helps us develop strength of mind.
I’m passionate about the potential of New Zealand’s young people and I’m pleased to hear that experienced cricketers at The Willows Cricket Club are helping to support the young players and spur them on. It’s a great mix.
Education, the great liberator
When I think about what creates opportunities for our young people, education is always at the front of my mind.
I believe education is a liberator. It is the single most important rung on the ladder of opportunity.
Kids who have a strong education will be able to make choices in their lives.
We know that some kids get more from pulling an engine apart than studying Macbeth, so my Government is working on creative ways to make education more relevant to the needs of our young people and their futures.
For example, I know some students are more motivated in an environment other than a classroom, and it’s important that we push those people to achieve. That’s why we’re working to implement the Youth Guarantee to ensure that 16 and 17-year-olds who might otherwise slip through the cracks have work, education or training opportunities.
I’m determined to ensure our youth have the opportunities they need to deliver on their potential, both at school and in the workforce.
And in return, I want them to put in the effort to better themselves.
Core values
New Zealand is a great country for young people to grow up in. This is a country where we back our young people and we’re acutely interested in the next generation. Everywhere I go, people express views to me about how we can help young people better themselves.
I believe in some core values that guide me as Prime Minister. Central to this is that with hard work, personal responsibility and big dreams, we can all make more of ourselves.
Lack of work – and money – reduces people’s security and choices.
During last year’s recession 18- to 24-year-olds became the fastest-growing age group on the Unemployment Benefit: young people wanted to work but many couldn’t get jobs.
I know how damaging a long period of unemployment can be for people starting out. Confidence and self-esteem evaporate. Bad habits (and bad company) move in to take their place.
That’s why I’m working hard to get the economy revving up again – so we can give young New Zealanders the opportunity to reach their potential. If we don’t, we risk blunting the potential of an entire generation.
And that’s something I won’t accept.
Over to you
As you can see, I’m passionate about the next generation. We owe our young people the opportunities they need to deliver the very best of themselves. And I believe they owe us their very best efforts in return.
It won’t be easy. Few people have an unhindered road through life. Achievement, whether in sport, school or the workforce, takes commitment, determination and hard work.
But I believe every single one of us can achieve if we choose to. The task ahead of my government is to provide the opportunity.
The determination and hard work are up to you.