On Wednesday, May 28, Albany Senior High School (ASHS) came alive with purpose and pride as ākonga presented their Impact Projects – bold, student-led explorations of innovation, creativity, and community impact. The showcase was a true celebration of what happens when young people are given time, trust, and space to pursue their passions and solve real-world problems.

The day began with ākonga sharing their mahi with one another, before opening their projects to the wider community. Among the audience were stakeholders, mentors, whānau, and ākonga from Upper Harbour Primary, Ridgeview School, and Albany Junior High School – all there to hear from the changemakers of tomorrow.

Impact Projects are unique to ASHS – every week, ākonga are given a full day to explore their interests and tackle meaningful challenges. Working in collaborative hubs and supported by mentors and kaiako, ākonga apply Design Thinking and Agile principles to bring their ideas to life. These are not hypothetical assignments; they are action plans in motion, designed to make a difference.

From sustainability to social enterprise, from arts to education, the projects showcased were as diverse as they were inspiring. Semester One saw over 30 hubs, including A Better Environment, Kai Community, Tamariki in the Outdoors, Evolocity, and The Worlds We Love. Each project reflected deep learning, community connection, and a clear sense of purpose.

As Cristina Casey, ASHS Deputy Principal and Leader of Impact Projects, shared: “Over the last semester, our incredible rangatahi have poured their hearts, minds, and talents into their Impact Projects – and today’s showcase is a powerful celebration of what they’ve achieved. Through Impact Projects, our students step into the world as confident, connected young people, ready to make their mark.”

The showcase was more than a presentation – it was a culmination of months of collaboration, critical thinking, and courageous creativity. Students led the way from ideation to execution, connecting with external partners and solving real issues in their communities. The result? Authentic learning that dissolves the boundary between school and the real world.

To everyone who came to support our ākonga on Showcase Day, and who have supported them over the semester – thank you. Your presence reinforced the power of youth voice and the importance of learning that goes beyond the classroom.

Semester Two of Impact Projects begins next week – we can’t wait to see where curiosity, courage, and collaboration will take our students next!