Central Otago REAP will celebrate the national Festival of Adult Learning Ahurei Ākonga over the coming weeks, inviting everyone to share the ‘why’ behind their unique learning journey.

The local initiative is the work of students in Central Otago REAP’s Choices programme who have one main goal in mind - to find out people’s ‘why’.

To do this, the class welcomes people from all walks of life to document their reason ‘why’ via a short 30 second video, along with how they are learning a particular skill, whether it be te reo, a new computer programme, cooking, or sewing, among much more.

People can share what motivates them to continue learning, whether it be meeting new people, improving a skill, getting fit, understanding AI and the digital world or enjoying a challenge. 

Emma McLean, of Central Otago REAP, said the group wants to share what people are learning and how, with the aim of showcasing the many options available within Central Otago and how people can go about learning the skill themselves.

Choices student Malachi Bathurst said the way people are learning their skill was also important to share, whether it be in a classroom environment, online, or simply just reading.

Emma said the project is about celebrating life-long learning and sharing stories to inspire others and link them with what’s in our community.

Anyone wanting to share their passion is welcome to take part.

The Choices class will run drop-in workshops at Community House on Tuesdays and Thursdays, from 1pm to 3pm over the next two weeks, from August 20, to assist anyone wanting to create a video, but need some assistance capturing and uploading it.

The Festival of Adult Learning Ahurei Ākonga, supported by Adult and Community Education (ACE) Aotearoa, doesn’t take place until September 2 to 8, but the Choices class is marking it early so the videos can be created and shared in time for the celebrations.

The initiative also aims to support Mental Health Awareness Week taking place from September 23 to 29.

Emma said people who wish to use the video to demonstrate something they are learning instead of facing the camera, can do so - something the Choices class can assist with during the workshops.

“Just pop in and we’ll teach you.”

Click here to take part and share your learning 'why'.

For more information visit the Festival of Adult Learning Ahurei Ākonga website.

To find out more about the programmes offered by Central Otago REAP visit its website.