What is STRIDE?
STRIDE is an 8-week youth development programme that uses running, mentorship and goal achievement to help rangatahi build confidence, resilience and a sense of belonging. Over the course of the programme, participants train together toward completing the STRIDE Summit Challenge.
Inspired by a real journey from a first 2.5km run to 160km endurance events, STRIDE shows young people that small steps, consistently taken, can lead to extraordinary outcomes.
The Three Pillars of STRIDE
Movement
Using running and movement to build physical strength, routine and a sense of progress.
Mentorship
Positive, consistent adult support that helps rangatahi feel seen, heard and backed.
Community
Creating a safe, encouraging group where young people belong and lift each other up.
Who is STRIDE for?
STRIDE is designed for rangatahi who would benefit from:
- Increased confidence and self-belief
- Positive role models and safe connection
- Improved physical and emotional wellbeing
- Greater resilience in the face of challenges
- Stronger connection to whānau, school and community
- Support to set and work toward meaningful goals
What participants develop
- Confidence to try, fail and try again
- Stronger self-belief and identity
- Resilience and coping tools
- Improved physical wellbeing and fitness
- A sense of belonging and connection
- Hope and a more positive view of the future
Meet the Facilitator - Amber Silich
Amber is a passionate youth development practitioner and endurance runner who believes that movement, mentorship and community can change lives.
Her own journey started with a 2.5km run that felt impossible. Step by step, that first run grew into half marathons, marathons and 160km endurance events. Along the way, Amber discovered that the real finish line isn’t the race - it’s the confidence, resilience and self-belief built on the journey.
Amber brings this same heart, experience and encouragement to every STRIDE session, creating a space where rangatahi feel safe, supported and inspired to take their next step.
Beyond the Programme - STRIDE Alumni
- Monthly community runs and movement meet-ups
- Volunteer and peer mentoring opportunities
- Advanced trail and endurance challenges
- Support to choose and train for a personal ‘goal race’
- Help with event registrations and logistics
The STRIDE Future Fund
Any programme surplus is reinvested directly into opportunities for rangatahi.
The STRIDE Future Fund helps cover:
• Race entry fees and event costs
• Transport to and from events
• Alumni activities and community events
• Essential gear and equipment
• Scholarships for those facing financial barriers
This ensures that cost is never the reason a young person misses out on taking their next step.
Details
- Facilitator: Amber Silich
- Duration: 8-week blocks within school terms
- Group size: Up to 8 participants per cohort
- Reporting: Weekly progress updates and a comprehensive end-of-programme report
- Note: Session content and timing may be adjusted to best meet the needs of the group.
Building Confidence. Creating Belonging. Achieving Goals. One step at a time.
To discuss referrals or find out more about STRIDE, get in touch.
STRIDE Programme Enquiry
Share a few details below and we’ll be in touch to talk through STRIDE and next steps.