Central Hawke’s Bay District Council’s Jono Craig has won the inaugural Mayors Taskforce for Jobs (MTFJ) ‘Local Hero’ award, recognising his outstanding commitment to helping young people overcome barriers and move into employment and/or training.
The Council said Mr Craig’s exemplary efforts in the past year meant that despite it being a tough job market, he led his team to 141% of their annual target of supporting young people into jobs.
Mayor, Will Foley said Craig’s award was well-deserved recognition of the difference he makes locally.
“Jono genuinely cares about our young people and goes the extra mile to help them succeed. He understands our local employers, builds strong relationships and finds practical ways to remove the barriers that can stand between someone and a job,” said Mayor Foley.
“We’re incredibly proud to see the difference he is making in Central Hawke’s Bay recognised nationally.”
Mr Craig and his team help young people into jobs by both overcoming barriers that help them find jobs, like getting their drivers and connecting them with businesses who needed employees. They also provide pastoral care through the first six months of a new job.
Mr Craig said he was rapt to get the award, saying it highlighted not just his work, but his entire team’s mahi.
“It’s a cool recognition and I want to acknowledge the team I work with. It’s thanks to the amazing team of local co-ordinators and mayors I have worked with, and it wouldn’t happen without our amazing young people and the businesses willing to give them a chance,” he said.
CONNECT Driver Safety and Licensing General Manager, Kelly Annand, who is also a local councillor, has worked alongside Mr Craig for six years, said his willingness to find solutions sets him apart.
“Jono is a winner in our eyes. He is never a no person, he’s always a yes person, and he instils hope in every person he works with,” she said.
Mr Craig received the award in Rotorua on Thursday 15 October, at the MTFJ Annual Conference. The national award recognised a MTFJ coordinator or local team member who has gone above and beyond to support young people and their community.
The Mayors Taskforce for Jobs is a nationwide network of New Zealand mayors working with the Ministry of Social Development (MSD) to support young people aged 16 to 24 into employment, education, training or other positive activity.
In Central Hawke’s Bay, the programme is delivered through Jobs in Central Hawke’s Bay, using local relationships to provide practical, tailored support under Mr Craig’s leadership.
