CSP supports youth development programmes
Looking for young, talented people to join businesses is often top of mind for P&P teams which is why Fletcher Building has partnered with two organisations, TupuToa and First Foundation, who support and promote young people from diverse backgrounds and give them an opportunity to test their wings in their various business units … with CSP gladly offering two young women the opportunity to learn and work in a New Zealand manufacturing business.
“We were very happy to take on Alice and Emilie as interns and to show them how a manufacturing business operates,” says Neil Watson Head of CSP. “Both are in their third year at Auckland University and will be spending a period of up to 12 weeks over the summer in our business which will help them complete their studies and gives us an opportunity to support them in their journey.”
Alice Rihia
Originally Alice hails from Niue with her family finally deciding to settle in New Zealand when she was nine. “I grew up in Mangere and attended Aorere College which is between Papatoetoe and Mangere,” says Alice, who is currently studying Commerce at Auckland University. “I am helping out Craig Seymour, CSP Supply Chain Manager as I learn first-hand about operations and the supply chain.”
Alice says she is really enjoying her time at CSP and is happy that enrolling in TupuToa has given her this experience. “I am very grateful for the opportunity and the people here are really supportive. I am fortunate that I have been given actual tasks to do in the business, it is not just a token role.”
Emilie Choy
“I was born and raised in Auckland but my parents are originally from Hong Kong,” says Emilie who is also in her third year at Auckland University where she is completing a Law and Arts degree. “I first started interviews for First Foundation when I was in year 12 and I am excited that this has led me here to work as an intern. I am back in the office since finishing exams for the year and continue to find everyone very helpful and supportive.”
Emilie says her tasks at CSP have included undertaking product research, inventory updates, and helping with project forecasting.
“We are very happy to support the organisations of First Foundation and TupuToa that have introduced us to Alice and Emilie,” adds Neil. “We wish them all the best on their educational and life journeys.”
TupuToa was borne from the need to see increased Māori and Pacific representation in leadership positions in the corporate sector and seeks to ensure corporate Aotearoa is representative of our country, by developing and empowering our people and building the cultural capability of our partners.
‘Tupu’ - is about flourishing, thriving and growing into who you were meant to be.
‘Toa ‘- means courage.
What is FIRST FOUNDATION?
They believe every young kiwi deserves the same opportunities and they want to unleash the potential of talented but disadvantaged New Zealanders, with life-changing education and support.
The aim - to level the playing field!
Socio-economic status shouldn’t stop young people from achieving their dreams. But many bright students simply don’t have the financial resources and professional networks most people rely on to get started in their careers.