Mana over Meth
Kura Kaupapa
Mana over Meth Kura Kaupapa is an interactive programme about addiction and recovery, that gets rangatahi engaging in real-life situations through working together as a roopu (group). It is designed for schools and was launched in Te Tai Tokerau. Jessica Apanui and Holly Beckham share their experiences of addiction and their journey to recovery, offering solutions and giving a unique presentation with humour and aroha.
kura kaupapa
This kaupapa stemmed from the huge amount of feedback from people who had seen our documentary Mana over Meth, and the obvious need to have an open korero with rangatahi. With the generous support of Te Rau Ora, Jessica Apanui and Director Holly Beckham are now able to take their stories to others to help make a difference in the lives of Year 12 and 13 school students.
the session
The Kura Kaupapa session starts with a karakia followed by Jess and Holly introducing themselves and telling their story, followed by an interactive session including icebreakers, reflection, open and honest dialogue and feedback. The session is designed to give rangatahi a safe outlet to share their own expereinces.
feedback
The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive:
"I liked how honest you guys were about your past, and you were awesome at acting"
"'I enjoyed actually hearing the truth about your stories, not a sugar-coated version"
'How up front they were they gave their problems and solutions"
"How open you guys were it really helps others and for them to know they are not alone".
next steps
This journey, like Jess' and Holly's, is only just beginning and we know there is the potential to do more good and show rangatahi that there is another way instead of a life of drugs. If your school or rūnanga would like to talk to Jess and Holly about tailor-making a presentation to your rangatahi, please contact
