Finding True North

True North is your internal compass that guides and directs you successfully through your lifetime. It represents who you are as a human being at your deepest level. It is your orienting point – your fixed point in a spinning world – that helps you stay on track as a leader. It is your guiding light your reference point in an ever-changing world. Your True North is based on what is most important to you, your most cherished values, your passions and motivations, the sources of satisfaction in your life. 

True North Star Project was a 2018 community art project that welcomed teens and young adults to gather for four weeks to discuss and create one’s true north star. Each participant was shown how to make a 3D star tetrahedron out of recycled paper and other simple materials. At each workshop, we aimed not only to make art but also create a safe and supportive environment for participants to engage in dialogue around their dreams, wishes, direction and purpose. To connect their creative journey not only through art making but also through self awareness, critical thinking and perceiving themselves in positive new ways.

Through the creation and discussion around our True North Star, we directed the attention of this generation toward original ideas, principles & values and one’s true meaning and life purpose. This gathering was a catlyst for positive change to participate and engage in face to face dialogue around topics of isolation, passive screen viewing, social media, sexuality, bullying and suicide.  Everyone was encouraged to relate ideas, identity, dreams and other aspects of their authentic selves toward the decorating of their True North Star.

These lightweight paper star sculptures were displayed as a hanging art installation at the Uxbridge Arts and Culture Centre in Howick durings the 2018 Christmas season. This project was developed in collaboration with Dee Petit and Clint Taniguchi and sponsored by Creative Community Schemes Auckland Council.

  • If you dream big, define your own success, stay motivated and work hard, there will be no limit to what you can accomplish in life.  At Youth Tribe, we provide young people with the opportunities and motivation to overcome the obstacles that stand between them and personal happiness & success.
  • Our program demonstrates the importance of remembering your roots, always giving more than you receive and never letting anything or anyone come between your dream and your goals.
  • We, at Youth Tribe, are empowered by the community we serve.  Thank you to our facilitators, parents, sponsors and believers for allowing our inspiring hearts & minds to make a difference in the lives of young people.