More than 20 years ago, Stu never imagined that saying “yes” to helping with a youth programme would shape his life and the lives of countless young people across Tauranga.

“I kind of fell into it,” he laughs. “I’d just finished a diploma in children’s work when the Boys' Brigade asked me to help rebrand them. That’s how ICONZ, also known as Edge Workshop, began, and I’ve been here ever since.”

What started as a youth initiative has grown into mobile, hands-on woodworking workshops. Fitted-out trailers roll into schools, parks, and community spaces, giving young people the chance to build something real with their own hands.

“We work a lot with reluctant learners. Kids who may struggle with literacy or numeracy, or find school tough for other reasons,” Stu explains. “They’re often bright kids. They just need another way of learning. With woodworking, they can see and touch their progress.”

That sense of “I made this” follows them back into the classroom, into friendships, and into how they see themselves. Stu has witnessed transformations firsthand through improved school attendance, more positive attitudes towards teachers, and children developing resilience and pride in their achievements. One boy in particular went from causing trouble to being voted “champ of the camp” after a few workshops.

The impact reaches beyond the individual. Projects include memorial gardens, planter boxes at Merivale School, and picnic tables for the community. “The pride the kids take in seeing their work used by others is huge,” says Stu.

ICONZ has also taken its workshops into the heart of the community with “Workshop in the Park” sessions, a pilot programme supported by council funding in Gate Pā. These weekly, free after-school workshops for primary and intermediate students are held outdoors at 899 Cameron Road.

“We set up a barbecue, share a meal, and then get into the woodwork. The third session drew almost 30 kids, so now we split them into two groups each week. It’s amazing to see the demand,” says Stu.

Stu adds how the Volunteering Services team has been a real game-changer. “They’ve opened doors for us,” he explains. Through their Seek Volunteer platform we’ve been able to advertise roles and connect with people who genuinely want to give their time. Their networks and relationships in the volunteering space have helped us find the right kind of people. Those who share our passion for seeing kids thrive.”

Looking ahead, Stu envisions more mobile workshops across Tauranga and even partnerships with iwi to run programmes on marae. “The growth has to be sustainable, but the possibilities are exciting. Every time we set up, kids turn up. The need is right there.”

For now, the focus is simple: helping young people build skills, confidence, and brighter futures because sometimes all it takes is guidance, a safe place to land, and someone who believes in what you can achieve.

If you’d like to volunteer or your group needs support, Volunteering Services can help. Visit www.volunteeringservices.org.nz or call (07) 987 0920.

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