Take The Lead Tonga (TTL) has opened a new office and launched a Social Impact Incubation Hub aimed at helping young Tongans develop ideas into initiatives that can benefit their communities.

The hub was opened in Nuku’alofa on Monday by Prime Minister Lord Fakafanua, during International Youth Month.

Take The Lead says the new space will provide young people and social impact entrepreneurs with access to mentorship, networks, support and opportunities to develop their ideas.

The initiative is supported by funding from the Australian High Commission.

TTL Founder and CEO Elizabeth V. Kite said the hub was intended to give young people a practical place to develop ideas and build connections.

“We want this to be a place where young people can bring forward their ideas, find the support and connections they need, and have the opportunity to turn those ideas into something meaningful for their communities and our country,” she said.

The launch expands the organisation’s focus beyond leadership training into supporting young people seeking to develop social-impact initiatives and enterprises.

Take The Lead was founded in 2017 and has established programmes including She Leads Fale Alea ‘O Tonga, which gives young women opportunities to engage with parliamentary processes and develop leadership skills.

The Legislative Assembly has described the programme as a platform for young women to participate in politics, public service and national development.

The new hub adds another pathway for young people to move from leadership development to developing and implementing ideas.

Take The Lead has previously provided training for many young leaders, with its programmes reaching young people across Tonga.