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Youth Action Squad (YAS)

Netsafe's Youth Action Squad (YAS) empowers young people to speak up, take action and support each other on the online safety issues that affect them.

What's it all about?

The YAS is an opportunity for high school aged young people to contribute to our thinking, plan initiatives, lead campaign activities and enact change in their communities.

Netsafe Youth Action Squad members sitting holding Google branded pillows

Why be part of YAS?

"When you're online you shouldn't need to be fearful or anxious. That's why YAS is needed. We're trying to make being online as enjoyable and safe as possible"

- Anahera, Auckland, YAS Ambassador

thumbnail of Youth Action Squad toolkit asset on abstract purple background

Making a difference in schools

YAS Toolkit 2023

To kick off the latest cohort of YAS, Netsafe invited new YAS members to a leadership workshop facilitated by YMCA’s Raise Up programme, followed by an introduction to their big project for the year: developing a toolkit for young leaders in schools nationwide to use.

In the months that followed, YAS members met regularly online and in-person, making content decisions and briefing graphic designers, copywriters and web developers, to bring their idea from brainstorm to product launch in just 5 months, supported by funding from the Ministry of Education.

In May 2023, the YAS group received media training from Netsafe’s trusted PR advisors, preparing their key messaging and honing their interview skills, so that they could lead the public launch of their mahi.

Netsafe are proud to promote the culmination of their hard work: The YAS Toolkit. The YAS Toolkit is packed full of tools, resources, and guides to help young people start their own local Youth Action Squad at their high school.

Why start a Youth Action Squad at your school?

There are many amazing perks that come along with being a local YAS leader.

Make a difference

Lead conversations, organise projects, take the lead on activities and bring about good change in your school community.

CV boosters

Gain valuable experience and improve your skills in youth leadership, mentorship, public speaking, event planning and community action.

Connect to new people

Connect with other passionate youth from across the country. Take advantage of opportunities to collaborate with online safety industry experts and representatives from tech platforms who want to make a difference.

Boost your knowledge and confidence

Learn from your peers and gain valuable experience in leading a local youth action squad.

Get creative and have fun!

Netsafe Youth Action Squad Members sitting around table at a workshop

Join us!

We’ll provide the training so you don’t need to have experience. Send your questions to [email protected]