Ōtara rangatahi rewriting their story through music and mentorship

Over the next six weeks, a group of rangatahi involved in the Soul Brothers programme (developed as part of the ROCC programme and delivered by Men’s Health Trust in partnership with the Ōtara Scorpions Rugby League Club) are co-creating something powerful – a community anthem called Ōtara Proud.

Led by Brother D (of Dawn Raid Entertainment), the song is being written and produced alongside local young people as part of a wider journey that combines rugby league, mentoring, mental health, leadership and life skills.

This is so much more than just a music project.

Ōtara is often portrayed through headlines focused on crime, gangs and hardship. While those challenges exist, they don’t define the community. This project is about amplifying what’s also true – culture, resilience, leadership and pride.

Across the programme, rangatahi are:

– Building identity and confidence

– Learning about mental health and resilience

– Exploring pathways to employment and leadership

– Working together to create a song that represents who they are and where they’re from

The journey will culminate in a live performance at Ōtara Proud Day on May 2nd – a community event bringing together music, sport and families.