In each issue of Tomokia the Hapū Trust will highlight our young people who are doing interesting and inspiring things with their lives and careers. So if you know of someone please let us know. For this issue of Tomokia we have the pleasure of sharing Levi Tapara’s journey.
My name is Levi Tapara, I am 27 years old and I am the husband of Samantha and father of Tanerau, we are expecting our second child in December. I am in my final year of a Bachelor of Business degree at AUT University, I have majored in Management and Tourism. I left school with no qualifications but decided to go to University in 2011. It has been a challenging experience and I am excited to be graduating in December. I have had a lot of support from friends, whanau, my Church, and God has given me the strength to achieve my goals and dreams.
I have worked as a mechanic, a roofer and a cave guide in the past. During my teens and early twenties I got into a bit trouble and I have done some things I am not proud of. I got to a point where I didn’t like where my life was heading and that’s when I met Jesus. He has raised me above those circumstances and given me a new outlook on life. I could not have got here without him, because my past is my history and my future is my destiny. I have a dream for our young people to rise above their circumstances and become leaders of influence. In our young people I see warriors, champions, history makers and world change makers. I believe in them and nothing is impossible.
I am the CEO of Limitless Roofing that employs seven fulltime staff and two part time staff. I don’t work for the company full time because I am a full time university student but I am the visionary and decision maker of the business. I am able to do this because of the key people who take care of the day to day running of the business. The business is going from strength to strength and we are in an exciting season. I have a dream to train young people in the roofing trade, giving them not only a job but a career. This gives them a hope for the future, I believe in them fully.
In August I start an internship with Tourism Holdings Ltd in order to complete my degree, which I am looking forward to. I will be working on projects for their products in Waitomo. I love Waitomo it is a beautiful, unique and special place. I just want to encourage our young people to dream big and to go for it. Don't let where you are from, your current situation or what people have spoken over your life stop you from reaching your dreams, you can do anything, I believe in you! Nothing is impossible! We need leaders in all areas of business and our community. God bless.
