Jammin' in the Park is part of Tauranga Youth Development Team's 100% Summer Series and it's shaping to be an unforgettable event – empowering youth to be themselves, overcome challenges, and groove to some amazing tunes by local performers.

It's all going down this Saturday, April 15 from 3pm-6pm at Carlton Street Reserve in Otūmoetai. And guess what? It's absolutely free to attend!

The line-up is stacked with incredible talent, including college bands and local musicians like Sophie Maude, Unit 51, Seaside Jams, Cybele Chapman, and Blah Blah Uh Huh Boo Hoo.

But Jammin' in the Park is not just about music – it's about celebrating uniqueness in this digital age where social media and peer pressure can sometimes be overwhelming.

Tauranga Youth Development Team general manager Erika Harvey, Erena Lagas and Rebecca Kit have been working with their youth advisory panel since 2022 where the concept was created. 'We've been fortunate to work with some wonderful students who've been open in sharing many of the struggles they're facing today. We wanted to create a festival where everyone can just be themselves and have a blast embracing who they are.” Sophie Maude, a super-talented Tauranga musician who has overcome challenges with Autism, ADHD, OCD, and Tourette's syndrome, will perform and spread an important message of self-acceptance and hope.

Sophie, whose latest single ‘Take Me Away' topped the NZ Hot 40 Singles Chart, is stoked to perform in a welcoming and inclusive environment where she can connect with audiences and jam out on-stage with her guitarist. She believes in being real about her struggles to inspire others and make them feel welcome, just like she wished she had felt growing up on the spectrum.

Artist Sam Allen will create a collaborative art piece on-site that you can join in on. There will be roaming performers, food trucks, a chill-out zone and giant outdoor games.

So mark your calendars for Saturday, April 15, gather your squad, and head to Carlton Street Reserve for a fun, safe, and sober event.

Erika gives a shoutout to Matt Bodman and Otūmoetai College for providing the back line for the event 'Events like this can have a huge impact on young people, giving them a chance to showcase their musical talents and connect with their peers in a positive and supportive environment. Teachers like Matt play a vital role in making these events a success.”