In partnership with Te Uru Tāngata Centre for Workplace Inclusion, YEA is thrilled to present the Good Youth Employer Award at the prestigious Diversity Awards NZ™ 2026.

Celebrating Employers Who Champion Young Talent

This award shines a spotlight on organisations that go above and beyond to create inclusive, empowering, and genuinely supportive workplaces for young people.
Nominations were invited from employees aged 16 to 30. Great youth employers recognise the value young people bring. They respect their contributions, invest in their development, and ensure their workplaces prioritise health, wellbeing, safety, and inclusion. These organisations empower young employees to thrive, grow, and shape the future of their industries.

And the winner is

PCS PROJECTS

Accepting the award, Director Fred van der Sande shared the impact their approach to youth employment is having. Their team is currently working on the first social housing project in Wairoa, with local rangatahi making up the workforce through partnerships with local iwi. Fred spoke about just how powerful that experience has been, saying they ended up with the best group of workers he’s ever had.

PCS Projects, like all nominees, was put forward by one of their own young staff members. Their employee, 21-year-old apprentice Rogan Baty, shared what it’s like to be part of the team, highlighting a workplace where he feels genuinely valued. From regular recognition to performance-based rewards, he spoke about the consistent encouragement he receives, as well as the real opportunities he’s been given, including being offered a carpentry apprenticeship just three months after starting at age 19.

Rogan also touched on something we hear time and again from young people: the importance of feeling supported as a whole person. Having leaders who mentor, encourage, and respect life outside of work has made a huge difference to his experience.This mix of opportunity, support, and belief is exactly what this award is all about, and PCS Projects brings it to life in a way that truly sets them apart.

Congratulations again to PCS Projects, and a big shoutout to all of our finalists. You’re helping lift the standard for how young people are supported at work across the motu.