Journal

Have you ever noticed that little voice inside your head? The one that whispers thoughts, sometimes kind and encouraging, other times tricky or unkind? We like to call that voice your Whisper Buddy.

In fact, meet Sprout, a Whisper Buddy who loves to perch quietly on a child’s shoulder, reminding us that the way we think and feel matters.

Whisper Buddy’s show us something important: we all carry different voices inside us. Some tell us, “You’ve got this!” while others might say, “It’s too hard, don’t even try.” Both are part of being human. What makes us special is that we have the power to choose which whispers we listen to.

And while it’s not always easy, every choice shapes the way we see ourselves, the way we connect with others, and the way we build our world. That’s why our guiding pou at Cheekee Hero are so important.

Creativity

Creativity gives us the courage to imagine new ways forward, even when the whispers we hear are challenging. It’s about turning “I can’t” into “What if I try this?”

Connection

Connection reminds us that we don’t have to listen to our Whisper Buddy’s alone. Sharing our thoughts with others helps lighten the load — and sometimes hearing another voice of encouragement makes all the difference.

Community

Community is where we stand together, side by side. It’s knowing that even if our Whisper Buddy feels heavy, we have people around us who care, support, and believe in us.

Whisper Buddy’s like Sprout are here to remind us of our choices. Every time we pause, take a breath, and choose the whispers that lift us up, we grow stronger - as individuals, and as a community.

At Cheekee Hero, our mission is simple: to create spaces where tamariki belong, imaginations grow, and we can all shine together. 

So next time your Whisper Buddy leans in, ask yourself: Which voice will help me grow?