Toi EDA Drives Opportunities For Licensing Throughout Rural Eastern Bay of Plenty

During 2023, Toi-EDA launched a licensing program to empower rural communities facing access and funding challenges. The program successfully reached Te Teko, Ruatoki, Waimana, and Murupara, and assisted in Whakatane. TOI-EDA collaborated with local iwi providers lacking funds, This emphasised the importance of community partnerships and prioritising the well-being of our people at the forefront.

Recognising rural challenges, the program embraced the AA Mobile licensing approach, allowing whanau to take tests in familiar, supportive settings. This incredible community success was as a result of identifying community champions and understanding the local "co-hort," promoting a sense of community and collective effort.

Beyond licenses, TOI-EDA's innovative and community-focused approach strengthened community ties, resilience, and a shared sense of accomplishment, serving as a model for culturally sensitive initiatives in rural settings.

Toi EDA would like to expend their thanks to the the collective support from services & behind the scenes collaborations including, MSD for the funding, support from the extended team to coordinate programs and also to individuals throughout the Eastern Bay for their initiative taken to get licensed and pathway into the workforce, strengthening the industry overall so we all benefit (as an EBOP community) from this kaupapa (programme).