A life skills course for teenagers held in Ōamaru at the weekend has received shining endorsements from its participants.

Thirteen teens took part in the inaugural 21st Century LifeSkills on January 27 and 28, offered by Ōamaru-based personal development specialist Amanda Fleming.

The course was developed by Amanda to provide teens with essential life skills to overcome common challenges they might face and to help them more readily achieve their goals.

One teen commented they did not know what they were walking into but “learned lots and had fun”.

A number commented that it was an “amazing experience”, which they were very grateful for.

“An incredible, empowering experience,” said another teen.

Amanda said she was delighted the workshop came together within a relatively short time frame and it was a testament to the “very talented team”.

She said the support from out-of-town clients of hers, Caliber Design and Skills Group, who believed in the idea, was “personally humbling”. Additional support from foundation sponsors Willowpark Trust and The Business Hive, along with Southanjer, Laser Electrical Ōamaru, and Countdown, made the workshop possible.

“Individual teens were also offered scholarships by generous souls in our community too - and we had so many offers, we have some all ready for the next 21stC LifeSkills workshop in April.”

For a first time “run on the track” Amanda said she and the support team of adult “coaches” are happy with how it went.

She intends to run the workshops every school holidays in 2024 "and beyond" and is always on the lookout for more sponsors, and interested teens. 

“On behalf of our team and the teens, we give our sincere thanks to all who helped make the very first workshop happen.

"We did something good.”

Those interested in sponsoring or signing up for the next course on April 20 and 21, can contact Amanda directly at [email protected] or phone 021 357 753.