The inaugural Pūmanawa Āwhina Awards Night was a highly anticipated event that brought together Community Connect coordinators from across the country to celebrate and honor those who have made significant contributions within their communities. 

Attendees gathered at Bruce Pulman Lodge on June 13th, eagerly awaiting the moment to recognise the exceptional leadership, innovation, and dedication of their deserving peers.

These incredible individuals not only demonstrated these qualities, but also embodied the values of Community Connect, including Te whakawhanaungatanga (building partnerships), Kōtahitanga (unity), Mana Manaaki (creating positive experiences), Pūmanawa Innovation (innovation), Hautūtanga Ngākau Tuwhera (inclusivity), and Aroha (care and appreciation). 

The event proved to be an extraordinary evening, shining a spotlight on the remarkable achievements and positive impact these inspiring individuals have had on their community. 

We are delighted to present the recipient of the following awards, accompanied by a description of each award category.

Mana Manaaki Award: Congratulations: Mele Latu 

The Mana Manaaki Award honors individuals who have shown exceptional growth and development, both in their personal journey and in the communities they have served as coordinators. This award recognizes the qualities of personal courage, integrity, and drive, while embracing the systems and values of Pūmanawa Āwhina. Through their unwavering commitment to uplift and support others, these individuals have embodied the spirit of mana manaaki, which encompasses respect, empathy, and kindness. By aligning their actions with the principles of Pūmanawa Āwhina, they have made a positive impact on the lives of those around them.

Kotahitanga Award: Congratulations: Phylis Latu 

The kotahitanga Award recognises an individual who displays phenomenal skills in bringing local people and groups together to establish a sense of unity within their community. This individual possesses the ability to actively engage various organizations, associations, and residents, binding them together to work towards common goals and objectives. By cultivating relationships and partnerships, they create an environment that encourages collaboration, shared resources, and collective problem-solving. Their efforts result in strengthened community cohesion, where people feel connected and supported by one another. 

Whakamanawa Award: Congratulations: Norelle Taringa

This award recognizes individuals who inspire confidence in others, encouraging active participation and engagement. This award is given to those who demonstrate their ability to mobilise people, as evidenced by the attendance numbers and the willingness of whānau to get involved. Through their charismatic leadership and inclusive approach, they have instilled confidence in others, empowering them to be part of meaningful endeavors. The Whakamanawa Award celebrates their outstanding ability to inspire others, form meaningful partnerships and highlights the positive impact they have made on building a strong and connected community.

Hautūtanga Ngākau Tuwhera: Congratulations: Komene Marino

The Hautūtanga Ngākau Tuwhera Award acknowledges individuals who excel in cultural alignment, showcasing their exceptional talent for consistently incorporating tikanga (customs) and other cultural practices into their work and delivery. These remarkable individuals are particularly recognized for their ability to create inclusive community events that foster a sense of belonging and cultivate cultural pride. They skillfully weave traditional elements into their events, creating a welcoming atmosphere that celebrates diversity and cultural heritage. Their commitment to inclusivity and cultural preservation is evident in the enriching experiences they provide, instilling a deep sense of pride and connection among participants. The Hautūtanga Ngākau Tuwhera Award applauds the coordinators exceptional ability to unite communities and inspire a shared appreciation for diverse cultures, making a lasting impact on the collective identity of those involved.

Wāhine Taitamariki: Congratulations: JB Radovanovich

The Wāhine Taitamariki Award recognizes the remarkable efforts of an individual who has dedicated themselves to empowering young women and girls through opportunities for growth and development in sports. This exceptional person creates a nurturing environment that specifically focuses on our wahine, fostering their enthusiasm and confidence to participate while also cultivating future leaders. By empowering wahine to actively contribute to their whānau and community with confidence and pride, they are able to foster strong connections and promote knowledge-sharing, ultimately leading to a positive intergenerational impact and influencing the future career choices of wahine.

Pūmanawa Āwhina Taonga: Congratulations: Mele Latu

The Pūmanawa Āwhina Taonga award is the highest honor bestowed upon the Coordinator of the Year. This prestigious award is earned by consistently achieving performance objectives in all areas, as demonstrated through successful facilitation of Steering Group meetings, consistent delivery of activations, diligent reporting and captivating storytelling. They exemplify AWHI to both the community and their colleagues, radiating a genuine commitment to uplift and support others. Through the embodiment of Community Connect values, they possess the skills in bringing local people and groups together, fostering a sense of unity. Through their unwavering dedication and leadership, this Community Connect coordinator plays a vital role in building resilient and thriving communities. 

A thank you to our key partners: 

Sport NZ, ACC, Foundation North, Te Puni Kokiri, Lotteries, NZ Police, E Tū Whānau.

We express our heartfelt gratitude to our valued partners, as the meaningful impact experienced by our communities would not have been possible without their support. We deeply appreciate the continued confidence invested into Pūmanawa Āwhina, which enables us to contribute towards the growth and empowerment of communities, helping them to unlock their true potential.

The annual celebration of the Pūmanawa Āwhina Awards serves as a culmination of the incredible efforts of the Community Connect coordinators who tirelessly serve their regions. These coordinators play a crucial role in creating social hubs, safe havens, and fun-filled environments that allow communities to flourish. Through the integration of additional support programs such as AWHI and Igniting Potential in Rangatahi, the value to whānau is undeniable, fostering the growth of resilient and connected communities across Aotearoa. It was our honor to show recognition and appreciation to those whose dedication to uplifting and empowering others, ignites a ripple effect of positive change that extends far beyond the boundaries of these awards nights.

The Pūmanawa Āwhina Awards were delivered as a part of the two day annual wānanga held at the Papakura Marae and Touch New Zealand offices as part of their professional development and general networking. 

End.

Article added: Thursday 03 August 2023