UNSEEN HEROES
#SeenHeardFound
Young Carers
Young people who care for a family/whānau/aiga member with a disability, illness, injury, mental illness, addiction, or significantly support siblings or grandparent(s).
WE'VE REBRANDED
Kiwibank
New Zealand
Local Hero of the Year
TOP 10
Semi-Finalist
Char Harris is a driving force behind Unseen Heroes, an organisation supporting young carers under 25 (rangatahi often taking on significant caregiving responsibilities for whānau, while still trying to grow and develop themselves). Through a range of camps and initiatives, Charmaine creates a space for young people to connect, helping them to build meaningful relationships and find a sense of belonging. Her impact is immediate and profound – youth who arrive withdrawn and uncertain often leave with newfound confidence, self-love, and a brighter perspective on life.
Alongside co-founder Te Rina Ruru, Charmaine has poured her heart and soul into Unseen Heroes, supporting a significant number of young people with mental health, education, employment, and life outside of caregiving. As an advocate for whānau living with a family member’s trauma, Charmaine has highlighted the great need for this kind of support across Aotearoa – celebrating the strength and pride of young carers while ensuring they are seen, heard, and supported.
RISE TOGETHER RALLY
1st January - 31st March 2025
Unseen Heroes are looking for people to join our challenge! In April we have a new intake of young carers and still don't have government funding. We are looking for people to do their own fundraisers between now and the end of March, the goal is $1500 per person or group but everything helps!
Once you register as a fundraiser, we can set you up a Give a little page and share some fundraising ideas with you but you're welcome to come up with your own idea.
Every fundraiser will be invited to the family morning on the last day of our camp, where you can see what you have fundraised for and how much you are helping us to change lives!!
Our Mission
To transform the lives of Young Carers by providing holistic healing and an environment and opportunities to connect, heal, have fun and learn.
Te Ara Mārama
Te Ara Mārama is here to support young carers who face the unique challenges of balancing caregiving with their own needs. We understand how tough it can be to manage mental health struggles, stay on track with school, or find your direction in life. Our programme offers a caring and supportive path towards personal growth and leadership with a strong focus on holistic healing. After completing Te Ara Mārama, those who have been committed to their healing journey can join our leadership programme, where we continue to provide the support and assistance needed for their mental health and future success.
If you're a young carer facing challenges and seeking support, please reach out and enroll in Te Ara Mārama. We understand how difficult it can be, and we're here to guide and support you.
If you know someone who could benefit from this program—whether they’re a friend, family member, student at your school, or a young carer in your service—please feel free to refer them to us. We warmly welcome and appreciate all referrals.
Voices of our Unseen Heroes
How Unseen Heroes has made a difference to young carers
Are you a Young Carer?
If you’re not too sure whether you (or someone you know) might be a Young Carer, a great place to start is this quiz!
While we acknowledge that every caring role is different, and that not all Young Carers feel that they need to access support, we’re also incredibly passionate about raising awareness, promoting inclusivity and advocating for young people in caring roles!
Change a life today
Your contributions whether big or small helps us to find and support more Young Carers
