John James (JJ) Rika is the new face at Kawerau District Council, taking over the role as youth projects officer.

JJ has a degree in media studies and is an accomplished professional musician with a background in teaching and mentoring music for young people. His resume includes also three years’ service with the Whakatane Youth Council (2008-2010).

Over the past five years, JJ has worked as Youth Radio Presenter for Sun FM Whakatane, a Youth Guarantee Tutor at Matapuna Training Centre Gisborne and as a Music Mentor for the New Zealand Music Commission based in Auckland.

JJ has recently returned to the Eastern Bay and is delighted to have secured a position that will realise his continuing passion to work with Rangatahi and looks forward to the excitement and challenges that youth projects have to offer.

JJ will overlook the Kawerau Youth Council and related events, this will see him in the selection process of the new Youth Council over the coming weeks and a number of events incorporating the most recent youth council members will take place throughout the year.

Team Leader, (Events and Community Activities) Lee Barton says “JJ has a number of key attributes that we [Kawerau District Council] believe will make him a wonderful asset to the organisation and ultimately the Youth which he will engage during his time here. His background in music will certainly lend himself to have an extremely positive influence.”

“Whilst it is exciting to have JJ start with KDC, we would also like to show our greatest appreciation to Lucy Potter for all the excellent work she has done over the past two years. We all wish her well as she prepares for motherhood.” Mr Barton said.

Some of the initial projects JJ will be involved in are the annual Skate Park Jam (March 15), Leadership Training, Youth Triathlon and Career Expo, along with forming the new Kawerau Youth Council.

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