MEDIA RELEASE - The Vodafone New Zealand Foundation has begun the search for passionate Kiwis who are focused on helping youth reach their potential – and will support six people to do just that. Successful applicants will be provided mentoring and a salary for a year, giving winners the chance to make a ‘world of difference’ to a cause dear to their hearts.

Now in its thirteenth year the World of Difference programme is one of Vodafone’s unique corporate-giving initiatives. It gives recipients the opportunity to work full-time for a charitable organisation involved with young vulnerable New Zealanders by paying a salary and expenses for a full year. The Foundation support winners on their journey with training, networking opportunities, advocacy and leadership development.

Antony Welton, Vodafone New Zealand Foundation Chair, says the six successful applicants will need to show not only passion for young people, but a strong plan for successfully enriching their lives and those of others.

“We’re searching for Kiwis with a burning desire to help young people. Successful applicants will need to show us their project is sustainable beyond the first year. We want to see an innovative plan that will make strong, positive impact in their communities.”

This year’s entrants need to have outlined clear outcomes, show potential to grow and create opportunities for young people to engage in learning, work or training.

Antony continues: “Each year we support amazing people that make a real difference in their communities and beyond. This year, we’re focused on supporting applicants dedicated to providing the right support, encouragement and environment to help young vulnerable New Zealanders realise their dreams.

“The goal of the Foundation is for all young people to live lives they value. This is achieved through programmes that engage young people in meaningful learning.”

Marcus Powell, a World of Difference recipient from 2014, works with youth in low decile areas in Auckland at the Crescendo Trust Of Aotearoa. Due to the success of Marcus’s programme the Foundation extended their partnership with Crescendo Trust Of Aotearoa into a second year.

“The Vodafone New Zealand Foundation World of Difference programme has enabled the Crescendo Trust Of Aotearoa to grow across Auckland. It’s helped us create impact through music, visual arts and media for our young people and the wider community.”

Since its inception in 2002, the Foundation has invested upwards of $18.5 million supporting 80 inspiring individuals with the World of Difference programme. The recipients currently on their World of Difference year are involved in projects ranging from inspiring the young people of Moerewa, to connecting young Māori in Hokitika with culture and land.

To find out more or submit an online application, visit www.vodafone.co.nz/WoD.

Entries open from 8 June 2015, and will close on 17 July 2015 at 5pm.

Successful applicants will begin their World of Difference positions between 1 January 2016 and 31 March 2016.