FFF Graduation Evening – Hope in the Midst of Challenge
In a season where many whanau are under strain — rising costs, uncertainty in work, and the continuing impact of violence in our homes and communities — moments of hope shine even brighter.
We gathered to celebrate 28 fathers who completed our 14-week Family Violence Intervention Programme, Te Ara Poutama o te Matua Mārama. Each graduate stood as living proof that change is possible, and that healing begins in the heart of the father. Their testimonies, echoed by the voices of parents and whanau, reminded us that restoration is not theory — it’s visible, practical, and deeply felt in the lives of partners, children, and extended whānau.
A milestone of the evening was the recognition of two leaders from our new programme – Te Ara Whakamua (The Pathway Forward). Graduating as Co-Facilitators, they now step into roles that turn lived experience into leadership. In a society crying out for positive male role models, their courage offers a new pattern for others to follow.
As always, the evening closed with the swearing-in of graduates, supported by their whānau who pledged to walk alongside them. Each was welcomed into the FFF Alumni Group, strengthening a growing brotherhood of fathers committed to accountability, growth, and legacy.
Looking Ahead – Our Next Steps
At Fathers For Families, graduation is not the end but the beginning of a longer journey. To build on this momentum, we are taking deliberate steps forward:
10-Week Couples Programme: this initiative will walk with couples together, focusing on strengthening relationships after the men’s transformation journey. It will culminate in a Couples Graduation and Date Night, celebrating partnership, restoration, and new beginnings.
Whanau Day – Child-Centred Focus: our kaupapa is expanding to place children at the centre. This day will give tamariki a voice, highlight their place in the healing journey, and celebrate the role of fathers in nurturing safe, loving environments.
These additions strengthen our commitment to not just intervene in violence, but to rebuild the foundations of whanau life — love, respect, and legacy.
We are deeply proud of our graduates and thankful to MSD – Te Huringa o te Ao, our community partners, our photographer Bill, and the wider FFF whanau.
Restoring Mana. Building Legacy. The journey continues — for fathers, couples, and whanau.