From cadet to youth employee of the year

Perseverance, hard work, and a clear vision of the future has seen a former Far North District Council (FNDC) cadet and young mum win the He Poutama Taitamariki Award for Youth Employee of the Year at the Northland Business Excellence Awards.

The award celebrates young people who have made significant life changes after gaining employment, while also recognising employers for creating conditions that foster success and sustainability. The awards are an annual black-tie event staged by NorthChamber. FNDC Project Manager Tyela Wood was a joint winner of the annual award alongside Izzy Kiff from Goldie Contracting.

Tyela began her journey with the council in 2023 through the Ministry of Social Development’s cadetship programme. Although new to the Infrastructure Team, she quickly showed determination and a strong willingness to learn as a cadet, with her work ethic and potential being noticed by Head of Infrastructure, Tanya Proctor. This led to a secondment and eventually a full-time Project Manager role, which Tyela has now held for over a year.

Employment has been transformative for Tyela. The council cadetship gave her an opportunity to build skills, structure and confidence, supporting her shift into long-term stable employment.

In nominating her for the award, Tanya Proctor said Tyela was a hard worker and had made the most of every opportunity offered.

“We can provide the opportunities, but it’s entirely up to the individual to take them. Tyela has demonstrated maturity, sound decision-making, and she isn’t afraid to ask for help. She has been honest, has received honest feedback and has grown from it.”

Youth portfolio holders for the council, Arohanui Allen and Rachel Baucke, have also commented on the importance of Tyela’s success.

Councillor Allen said, “Tyela embodies the wairua of our district’s rangatahi; courageous and driven, with a deep desire to build a better future for themselves and their whānau. Tyela is a testament to what can be achieved when rangatahi are given the opportunity and support to pursue their aspirations.”

Councillor Baucke added, “Tyela’s journey is a remarkable example of courage and ambition. As a young mother, she chose to reshape her path, stepping away from influences that didn’t support her goals and committing herself to creating new opportunities. Her rise from cadet to Project Manager at FNDC in such a short period speaks volumes about her capability and determination. Tyela’s story is one of genuine inspiration, and she represents the kind of emerging leadership that strengthens our organisation and our community.”

As one of the major employers in the Far North, the council has supported the cadetship programme for over 20 years, giving young people the chance to cultivate their skills while offering a place to learn and grow.

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Main photo: FNDC Project Manager Tyela Wood (right) with Head of Infrastructure Tanya Proctor.