An inspirational group of tamariki from across Porirua were celebrated today for their service to their schools and the community.

The Rotary Clubs of Porirua and Porirua City Council presented Primary School Leadership Awards to 54 local school children at a ceremony at Elim Church.

The awards were presented by Deputy Mayor Izzy Ford, and Rotary District Governor Marion Johnstone presented each student with a Rotary International theme pin for 2018-2019.

Deputy Mayor Ford said she was inspired by the integrity, determination and aroha shown by the young award recipients.

“We are lucky to have such wonderful tamariki in Porirua. These inspiring young people not only have bright futures, but are shining right now. We thank you for all you do for others.”

Plimmerton Rotary President Donna Reed said the awards were the inspirational highlight of the year.

“As an educator, I am so proud to acknowledge the leadership in community service of our young people. I love watching them step forward and be acknowledged by their peers and adults. They give me hope that we are leaving the planet in much better hands.”

Guest speaker Children’s Commissioner Judge Andrew Becroft said the event was a chance to celebrate some of Porirua’s most influential young leaders who are making a real difference.

“Young people are the leaders of today not just the leaders of tomorrow. Young people are capable of being effective, energetic and inspiring leaders now. We need to encourage them and allow them to flourish,” he said.

“This ceremony is a reminder of the creative power that can be unleashed by young people.”

Mana MP Kris Faafoi said this exceptional group of young leaders were an inspiration.

"If you look at the testimonials of each recipient you’ll see that they're all doing such a great job for their school, community and city,” he said.

“No matter their backgrounds, these young and confident leaders are setting a great foundation on environmental issues, enjoying different cultures, helping those in our community who need assistance and perhaps most importantly supporting their friends at school.”

A list of recipients is attached.

For a testimonial on each student, or other queries, please contact Wendy Betteridge at Rotary on 021 417576 or wendy@lastingimpact.co.nz

Award recipients:

Bishop Viard College – Keanu Tutapakore and Venessa Vaoliko

Brandon Intermediate – Angel-Newyear Faivalu and Denis Sitama Tupuola

Cannons Creek School – Wyat Brown and Thi Khoa Vang

Corinna School – Eva Bishop and Jillian Tupuse

Discovery School – Emma Dullabh and Celestine Kaio

Glenview School – Potiki TeAlei and Luisa Rose Va’a

Holy Family School – Pleh Meh and Jayelle Temarama

Maraeroa School – Seepa Kosetatino-Liufau and Skylah Lihone

Natone Park School – Te Rito Aperahama and Tamure Phillips

Ngāti Toa School – Peata Edwards and Tristan Kaimoana

Papakowhai School – James van der Voort and Ava Jones

Paremata School – Noah Cole and Liana Hull

Pāuatahanui School – Milly Keys and Cameron Judd

Plimmerton School – Izzy Lauder and Carter Sidwell

Porirua School – Capri Graham and Lucas Joe

Pukerua Bay School – Bella Reeve and Nyzanah Ringiao-Taukiri

Rangikura School – Daisy Connolly and Kaleb Tapara

Russell School – Rebecca Hmun and Oceana Takao

St Pius X School – Sophie de Boer and Preston Leaf

St Theresa’s School – Jayden Reynolds and Courtney Tyrell

Samuel Marsden Collegiate School – Sophie Berry and Isabella Sharp

Te Kura Maori o Porirua – Maia Ake McKenna and Andre Marshall

Titahi Bay Intermediate – Edward Walsh and Shontel Misky

Titahi Bay North School – Maia Lapointe and Manaia Smith-Bennett

Titahi Bay School – Jadah Moore-Feu'u and Malachi Osman

Wellington Seventh Day Adventist School – Jason Faleafaga and Christina Taala

Windley School – Roman Rask and Vickiana Tuaau

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