MEDIA RELEASE - The Vodafone Foundation has announced five recipients in its World of Difference awards, working to bring change to areas as diverse as homelessness, bullying and youth employment opportunities.
The five 2017 World of Difference recipients will each receive $100,000 towards their salary, personal and leadership development, as well as project costs for the year.
Vodafone New Zealand Foundation chair, Antony Welton said, “Our work with previous recipients means that we know by supporting this group, they can in turn support countless other young people to achieve their dreams.
“For some of the most vulnerable communities, we know our five recipients will provide a vital lifeline” Antony said.
Award recipient Tabby Besley, and founder of InsideOUT, will spend the year developing much needed support networks in schools and communities nationwide for young people of sexual and gender minorities.
“Rainbow young people in New Zealand are five times more likely to attempt suicide, and at least three times more likely to experience bullying. A support network can provide a real difference, and may well be a lifesaver” Tabby said.
Kendal Collins has recently co-founded Sisters United with her two sisters including Parris Goebel.
The support from The Vodafone Foundation will enable Kendal to build on the Young Queen’s peer-mentoring programme for young women in South Auckland, based at The Palace Dance Studio.
“The programme uses spoken word, dance and art to explore ideas through expression, helping young women discover their talents, build their confidence and find their voice. Every young woman should feel worthwhile” Kendal said.
Award recipient Karla Sanders co-founded Sticks ‘n Stones, a youth-led organisation that delivers anti-bullying programmes, and with The Vodafone Foundation’s support, will build a nationwide network of youth leaders to deliver their programmes.
“Bullying has a devastating impact on the lives of young people, and we need youth leadership and voices to change that” Karla said.
Victoria Hearn has been at Lifewise since 2013, working to provide accommodation options to young people in Central and West Auckland.
“Access to housing is a basic human right – without a safe place to live it’s difficult for young people to access education, get employment or support themselves financially” Victoria said.
“By providing stable accommodation and support, young people have a base to build from, and a chance to develop independent living skills” she added.
With The Vodafone Foundation’s help Victoria will spend the year designing and developing different housing and support models that meet the needs of young people who are experiencing homelessness.
Award recipient Des Warahi will spend his year working with the Matipo Community Development Trust in Whanganui on community employment programmes, in horticulture and carpentry, as well as mentoring upcoming leaders.
“Not all young people start out with the same opportunities, but we can create more positive pathways if we involve whanau and community.
“With The Vodafone Foundation behind me, we hope to see more young people on the path to education and employment, with their community and whanau supporting them all the way”.
Foundation Chair Antony Welton said “Congratulations to all our recipients, we are excited about the passion they will harness working with communities to make a real difference in the lives of vulnerable young people”.
ENDS
For more information on the Vodafone New Zealand World of Difference programme please visit: http://foundation.vodafone.co.nz/the-world-of-difference-programme/
