Winning design shows energy: mural will go up at skatepark after Youth Week art competition victory

A mural design by two Gisborne Boys’ High students that judges say captures the culture and positive energy of the skatepark has won a competition in celebration of Youth Week. 

Barnardos Aotearoa and the Violence Free Tairāwhiti Network (VFTN) announced the winners of their youth mural competition, Āta Whakarongo (Be Heard), at a vibrant community event at the Gisborne skatepark on Friday afternoon. 

Aimed at promoting the Barnardos helpline 0800 What’s Up and the slogan Āta Whakarongo — and with the winning design to be painted on the halfpipe at the skatepark — the initiative received impressive participation from local rangatahi. 

The winning team of Sammy Castano Melville (Year 10) and Benny McKinnon (Year 9) from Gisborne Boys’ High School, encouraged by their art teacher Brett Summerlee, impressed the judges with a design that captured the rich culture and positive energy of the skatepark while promoting the essential kaupapa of 0800 What’s Up. 

“We see a lot of mental health issues with young men in our school, so initiatives like this one are pretty essential for a brighter future for these kids,” said Summerlee. 

The winners received a $500 Prezzy card and the opportunity to paint their design on the skatepark’s halfpipe with the support of local artist Neil Go, and all the necessary supplies to create their mural. 

“We believe in empowering young people to express themselves creatively and to seek help when needed, including from 0800 What’s Up counsellors,” said Barnardos Tairāwhiti service manager Chris Semmens. 

“This initiative provides a platform for rangatahi to share their stories and encourage discussions around mental wellbeing.” 

The runner-up was Aaliyah Maile, 16, of Gisborne Girls’ High School. The judges said her design of a teenager performing a skateboard trick under a palm tree captured the playful spirit of youth and did a good job of incorporating the phrase Āta Whakarongo and the What’s Up phone number. 

The announcement event was a community celebration featuring a free sausage sizzle, sports matches hosted by Whiti Ora Tairāwhiti/Sport Gisborne, and the winner announcement followed by a karakia/blessing of the mural space. 

Over 100 children, parents and local businesspeople attended, enjoying the festivities despite the forecast rain, which held off to reveal a rainbow. 

The skatepark crew provided music, and attendees were gifted What’s Up merchandise. 

Need help? 

Barnardos’ counselling service 0800 What’s Up is available seven days a week from 11am to 11pm providing free, confidential support. Tamariki and rangatahi can call or chat online to a trained counsellor on 0800 942 8787 or at www.whatsup.co.nz