WHO ARE WE?

"We exist to walk alongside young people — not just for a season, but through the key years of growth, challenge, and transformation."

DISCOVER VISION. BUILD CONFIDENCE. HAVE FUN.

Our Story

We exist because every young person deserves someone in their corner—cheering them on, walking beside them, and reminding them they’re not alone.

At Thrive Trust, we’re here for the long game. From primary school right through to high school, we journey with rangatahi through the ups and downs of life. Along the way, we equip them (and the adults around them) with practical tools and shared language for resilience, confidence, and hope.

This isn’t just about helping young people survive—it’s about helping them thrive.

And it’s working.

One student, who had planned to end her life the night before her 16th birthday, is now full of hope and exploring her dream to become a writer.

A parent shared: “We used to walk on eggshells at home. Now our son communicates, takes responsibility, and even apologises. It feels like we have our family back.”

Teachers tell us they’re seeing students with greater confidence, stronger peer connections, and the ability to bounce back from challenges.

Over the past year, three young people in crisis reached out to our team—and are alive today because someone was there to listen and walk with them.

This is what happens when we show up. Again and again.

Donate Now

BECOME A SUPPORTER

Meet The Team

Michael Wilkes - Manager

Michael leads the Thrive Trust team with heart and vision. He oversees funding, scheduling, and team development while keeping us on track to deliver meaningful youth work in our community. With over 15 years of experience as an outdoor instructor, program developer, and youth worker, Michael brings a depth of knowledge and a passion for seeing young people thrive. When he’s not championing our mahi, he’s adventuring with his four kids and stunning wife Jovana—whether it’s tramping, mountain biking, or exploring wild places.

Rachel Millar - Youth Worker

Rachel is a natural connector with a gift for cutting through the noise and getting straight to the heart. She mentors, facilitates programs, and helps young people feel seen and supported every step of the way. Originally from Cambridge, Rachel made the move to serve the Thames-Hauraki community but jumps at any chance to visit friends and family around the country. Loyal and caring, she also helps lead a Tuesday night youth group at Paeroa Bible Chapel.

Gaetan Widmer - Youth Worker

Gaetan—our resident Frenchman—brings energy, passion, and a huge heart to his mentoring and program facilitation. After falling for a Kiwi girl, he’s now settled in Paeroa with their young daughter, who he adores. Gaetan swapped dairy farming for youth work (and enjoys his sleep-ins), but his dedication hasn’t slowed down—he leads the youth group at Paeroa Bible Chapel and volunteers countless hours in the community. His enthusiasm for supporting rangatahi and whānau shines through in everything he does.

WE MAKE

GROWTH FUN

Sounds Great....

SO HOW DOES IT WORK?

MANAHAU
PRIMARY SCHOOL

Connect & Equip

We start early—meeting young people in their pre-teen years to build trust, teach tools, and spark courage. Through adventure programs and honest conversation, we help them name their values, navigate emotions, and believe they have what it takes.

Walk Alongside & Empower

As students step into high school, we don’t step away. We show up week after week—mentoring, supporting, celebrating wins, and sitting in the hard stuff. Our presence is steady, reminding young people they’re not alone and helping them take ownership of their journey.

PRESENCE BASED YOUTH WORK

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

Strengthen the Village

Thriving doesn’t happen in isolation. We equip the adults too—offering parent info nights, teacher workshops, and speaking at local community groups. Because the best outcomes happen when a whole community is using the same language of hope, resilience, and belonging.