Latoya’s Journey - What Happens When Barriers Are Removed

Latoya lives with Autism and Cerebral Palsy. Like many young people living with disabilities, she often faces barriers to access and inclusion – not just physical, but social and systemic. Yet none of that has dimmed her spirit. When we first spoke with her, it was clear: she was determined, excited and ready for something more.

Latoya had her sights set on Youth Horizons, a 6-day Outward Bound course designed for young people with intellectual disabilities who are still in school or college. These courses offer the full Outward Bound experience – time in the bush, on the water, and up in the high ropes – but with adaptations and supports that ensure every participant can safely and meaningfully take part.

Each Youth Horizons course welcomes up to 12 rangatahi (young people), supported by three experienced Outward Bound instructors and two trained support workers. The pace is slower, with more rest breaks, but the challenge is real. Participants return home having pushed their edges – sailing, camping, trying new things and often surprising themselves with what they’re capable of.

Many of the young people who take part in Youth Horizons have conditions like Down Syndrome, Williams Syndrome, Fragile X Syndrome, or other intellectual disabilities. What unites them isn’t a diagnosis – it’s the chance to be seen, included and supported to grow in a way that honours their individuality.

When we first reached out to our Outward Bound whānau, we hoped we could raise enough to cover Latoya’s scholarship – $3,808. What happened next was bigger than we imagined.

Together, our community raised over $13,000. That meant not only was Latoya’s course fully funded, but so were two more full scholarships, with funds left over toward a third.

Latoya attended Youth Horizons in April. Her experience? In her own words:

“Thank you so much for helping me go to Outward Bound. I had the best time! I made awesome friends, tried new things, and feel more confident now. I really appreciate your support.”

Her mum Corinna shared:

“Latoya came home absolutely fizzing with excitement. From morning runs to icy swims, sleeping under a tarp, and unforgettable adventures on the water—she loved every minute of it. She made amazing new friends, and the whole experience gave her a real boost in confidence, connection, and pride. She’s already talking about going back next year—though there might be a few chores first!”

At Outward Bound, we believe that challenge is for everyone – and that every young person, regardless of ability, deserves the chance to discover just how capable they truly are.

But we also know that access often depends on funding. That’s why we run scholarship campaigns like this one – not just to tick boxes but to open doors. To make sure young people like Latoya aren’t left behind and that their potential isn’t limited by circumstances outside their control.

To everyone who donated or shared the campaign – thank you. You didn’t just help Latoya get to Anakiwa. You helped make space for more inclusion, more belonging and more belief in what’s possible.

We hope you’ll continue walking alongside us as we work toward a future where every young person who wants to be here, can be here.