On Friday September 12, Kāhu Youth hosted the Youth Volunteer Awards, to celebrate and recognise the incredible impact youth have on our community through their volunteering. Over 50 youth were nominated, each receiving a certificate with their contributions shared with the audience, who acknowledged their efforts with lots of cheering! 

Mia was honoured with the Supreme Award, presented by Councillor Cody Tucker, and received an unforgettable prize - Lamborghini hot laps kindly gifted by Highlands! "Volunteering has given me the chance to be part of something bigger than myself, and I’m proud of the difference I’ve been able to make," Mia said.

The night was full of energy, hosted by MCs Ryan Enoka, Jessie McNeil and Tasmin Murphy - all incredible youth who have volunteered extensively for our community. Live music from Juno and Joplin Gerlach, plus DJ Finn made the night extra special. 

We were grateful to have special guests Dr Denise Quinlan, Kylie Stevens, and Councillor Cody Tucker present awards and join in the celebrations.

Charlise receiving her prize for winning the 11-12 year category, presented by Ryan Enoka and Jessie McNeil. "Volunteering has helped me grow as a person and showed me that even as a kid, I can make a difference," Charlise said.

Congratulations to the category winners:

11–12 yrs: Charlise

13–15 yrs: Mieke

16–18 yrs: Amelia

Arts & Culture: Alice

Community: Duncan

Environment: George

Sports: Claudia

Supreme Award: Mia

George received the award for Environment, volunteering his time for Wai Wānaka, researching stormwater drains and creating informative presentations for Get Your Feet Wet Events.

Each winner took home a prize pack filled with vouchers, treats, and goodies kindly donated by Highlands MotorSport Park, Basecamp Wānaka, BaseNZ, Paper Plus, Paradiso, Patagonia, Secret Sauna, Site Wānaka, Redstar Burgers, and The Little Brewer. A

HUGE thank you to these businesses for their support.

"It was inspiring to see our youth truly understand the power of volunteering. Even at a young age, they recognised the opportunities it brings - connecting with their community, building capacity and skills, and visiting places they normally wouldn't have access to," Kahu Youth operations director Anna Sutherland said.

"They shared with our audience how good it felt to help other people and organisations."

PHOTO: Deanna Gerlach