- Monday, 5 October 2026
From strengthening online communication skills to building confidence in te reo Māori, local community members recently took part in two free workshops designed to support learning, connection, and community capability.
The Facebook 101 and Te Reo Māori Pronunciation workshops provided attendees with the chance to learn directly from experts in their fields, with participant feedback highlighting the value of the sessions and the practical knowledge gained.
Facebook continues to be one of the most accessible and cost-effective communication tools available to community groups and not-for-profit organisations. While the platform is free to use, understanding how to use it effectively can make a significant difference in reaching and engaging local communities.
Led by Elm Marketing founder Emma Lindsay, the Facebook 101 workshop focused on helping participants better understand how Facebook works and how community organisations can use it to promote their activities, share their impact, and connect with supporters.
To celebrate Te Wiki o te Reo Māori, Community Trust South also held a Te Reo Pronunciation Workshop to support participants on their language journey.
Hosted by Community Trust South's Pou Ārahi Māori, Maryse, the relaxed and welcoming session invited participants to share kai while learning simple, practical ways to improve their pronunciation and confidence in using te reo Māori in everyday conversations.
The workshop explored pronunciation techniques and encouraged attendees to consider how te reo Māori can be incorporated more naturally into both professional and social settings. Participants were able to connect with others, learn in a supportive environment, and celebrate the Māori language together.
While both workshops attracted smaller groups, this created a valuable learning environment where participants could engage directly with facilitators, ask questions, and receive personalised guidance.
Community Trust South is committed to supporting the capability and resilience of community organisations and individuals across the region. By providing free access to expert-led workshops such as these, the Trust is helping build skills, confidence, and connections that strengthen communities for the future.
Sometimes the greatest impact comes from bringing a small group of people together to learn, share experiences, and grow. These workshops were a great example of just that.