Our Mission
Mentoring is our core business. The end game across all our programs is that young people will:
KNOW who they are - one’s identity, purpose, values and beliefs
GROW in character and resilience through careers and personal development
SOW into others through leadership and service
Our craft is in the how. We embrace our unique Pasifika identity to innovate mediums of inspiration, influence and impact that calls out the talented, resilient and confident young leaders of today.
Our Values
Our ways of knowing, being and doing are underpinned by our core Pasifika values.
Our Strategy
Our roadmap to what we do towards a thriving generation of Pasifika Young People
Our Story
“As new migrants to Australia from the streets of Otara, New Zealand, we came in search of greater aspirations - just as our parents left the shores of Samoa in search of a better life in New Zealand.”
Tia and Taua Suemai founded Charis Youth and Community out of a heart and passion to see young people not settle for anything less than their best. They both come from a background in education, youth and community with over 30 years of experience combined.
Through relationships, growing networks and a plethora of opportunities, partnerships evolved and allowed Charis to create platforms that support Pasfika Youth. From a small mustard seed, Charis has grown to become leaders among the Pasifika community in Victoria and a vehicle that fosters the gifts and talents of Pasifika young people.