McGredy Winder Supreme Award Winner and Winner of The Capability Group Award for Innovation in Organisation and People Development: Kia Puāwai, Auckland Council
About the Entry:
Kia Puāwai is a programme designed to improve employment outcomes in South Auckland by bringing unemployed local people into the council's contact centre workforce. Kia Puāwai is a programme delivered by Auckland Council, the Manukau Office if WINZ and Māori Training Provider, The Solomon Group that offers not just a job, but the prospect of a career.
The Judges Said:
Kia Puāwai is an inspirational example of a successful cross-sectoral collaboration that has provided a life-changing opportunity for the graduates, a reliable source of motivated staff for the contact centre, and sustainable benefits for South Auckland. This joining-up of capabilities shows the benefits of local leadership and local action transcending economic and social barriers.