YOUR CIRCLE
FAMILY
This is for you whānau, the parent, caregiver, and the village that is raising our young women*.
At the core of our love for our young people is that everyone deserves someone in their corner, someone who believes in their potential and helps them find their way when life gets complicated. That’s where The Future You Project comes in. FYP works alongside families, not instead of them. We’re here to support the conversations you’re already having, or want to have, strengthen the trust between you and your girls, and offer tools that help them navigate the complex world our teens are growing up in. We know families all look different. Some are led by one or both parents, some by grandparents, or wider whānau, some by foster whānau, and a shared goal to see their young person happy, healthy, and confident in their uniqueness. Our mahi is built on aroha (love), hauora (wellbeing), and connection, creating a space where every young woman, no matter her background, can be seen, heard, and supported.
*Please note that where we might say ‘women’ we also mean trans and non-binary young people who align with the term “women”.
Young women in Aotearoa New Zealand are under more pressure than ever before and their mental health is suffering as a result.
YWCA Report, 2018
WE FOCUS ON PRACTICAL GROWTH.
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Developing emotional awareness and healthy boundaries.
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Strengthening communication and friendships.
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Ways of dealing with anxiety and perfectionism.
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Encouraging balance across mind, body, and spirit.
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How social media can be a blessing and a curse for our young people.
We are trained professionals who combine evidence-based methods with empathy and lived experience. You can feel confident knowing every interaction is guided by care, safety, and respect for your child’s wellbeing.
TIPS FOR PARENTS
These small shifts can make a big difference in how young people see themselves and feel supported at home:
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Try gentle conversation starters to help uncover what’s really going on beneath the surface, for example, “What makes you ask that question?
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As your child hits their teens, there is a lot going on for them, so be patient and know that any outburst is frustration at the world being very challenging.
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Focus on her strengths, like creativity, kindness, or physical abilities.
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Compliment effort versus outcome. “I am so proud at how hard you worked” vs “I am so proud that you aced that test”
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Use descriptive feedback rather than broad compliments like “That outfit looks great on you” instead of “You’re so pretty.”
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Model positive self-talk about your own body, size, and shape, and of others.
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Encourage healthy eating and movement patterns rather than focusing on appearance.
If you have serious concerns, contact your GP or school guidance counsellor. Students can also reach out to YOUTHLINE — free call 0800 376 633, free text 234, or visit youthline.co.nz/body-image.
Sometimes young people open up best when they have a neutral, trusted adult to talk with, someone outside the family who helps them make sense of their thoughts and emotions.
At FYP, we hold that space gently, always encouraging open communication back home. Please note that we are not counselors, but trained coaches who listen, guide, and help young people develop the tools to navigate life with confidence. Any child you believe needs mental health professional please reach out to one of the following:
If you’d like to learn more about how FYP can support your whānau, we’d love to connect. Whether you’re seeking tools for confidence, guidance through the transition years, or simply a safe space for your teen to grow, FYP is here to walk alongside you.
Visit our Programmes page for more details on what we offer.
