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Kia ora everyone! I am Rutu, Co-founder of Hope is My Homeboy, and I am beyond excited to share the incredible partnership we've formed with Aroha Kotahi in the Whakatu region. Aroha Kotahi are making a real difference in the lives of vulnerable rangatahi as part of a positive education re-engagement programme. Our collaboration combines the powerful designs of my mental health and suicide prevention brand with the strength and resilience embodied by Hope is My Homeboy. It's an honour to be part of a movement that empowers our young people and uplifts our communities.


Empowering Rangatahi, Whānau, and the Community
:

Aroha Kotahi is an overarching wraparound framework that focuses on strengthening engagement and support for rangatahi, whānau, and the wider community. Our shared goal is to enhance school attendance, encourage student and whānau engagement in education, and foster active participation in the community. Through Aroha Kotahi, rangatahi receive professional and community support, ensuring they have the guidance and assistance needed to navigate their educational and personal journeys successfully.



At Hope is My Homeboy, we are passionate about raising awareness about mental health and suicide prevention. Our brand centres around the vital message of "checking on your homies" to cultivate a culture of support and well-being. Partnering with Aroha Kotahi allows us to merge our captivating designs with the Hope is My Homeboy logo, creating unique tees and caps. These items serve as symbols of strength and Aroha, a tangible way to acknowledge and celebrate the incredible progress our rangatahi have made.

The Impact: Our collaboration goes far beyond fashion and symbolism. When our rangatahi proudly wear these tees and caps, they showcase their personal growth and unwavering determination to overcome challenges. It's a powerful reminder of their resilience and the strength they possess within. But it doesn't stop there. The gear has also become a visible symbol of community support, as adults who align with the mission of Aroha Kotahi proudly wear it. Together, we show our commitment to guiding and uplifting our young people on their transformative journeys.



By combining my inspiring designs with the philosophy of Hope is My Homeboy, our partnership deeply resonates with rangatahi and the wider community. We bridge the gap between mental health advocacy, youth empowerment, and community engagement. Our collaboration is not just about clothing; it's about fostering a sense of belonging, connection, and unity among all those involved.


Looking Forward:

As the positive education re-engagement programme continues to expand and evolve, the partnership between Hope is My Homeboy and Aroha Kotahi sets an extraordinary precedent for future collaborations. Our joint effort's success is a testament to the power of community, creative expression, and a shared vision for positive change.


Together, we are unlocking the potential of our rangatahi, empowering them to realize their dreams. Through personalised gear, mental health advocacy, and unwavering community support, our collaboration is making a lasting impact on the lives of vulnerable youth in the Whakatu region.

As our tees and caps designed by Hope is My Homeboy continue to be proudly worn by rangatahi and their supporters, they serve as a visual reminder of the incredible strength, resilience, and Aroha that flows through our community. We are paving the way for a brighter future, one that celebrates the progress of our rangatahi and promotes inclusivity, well-being, and hope.

In partnership with Aroha Kotahi, we are unstoppable. Let's continue to inspire, uplift, and create positive change together. Ka rawe!

Join us in empowering rangatahi and promoting mental health awareness. Visit http://www.arohakotahi.co.nz/ to learn more about Aroha Kotahi, and how you can contribute to this transformative movement. Together, let's make a difference in the lives of our young people.

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