Since 2015 the local Northern Wellington schools have awarded a year 6 or year 8 student leader with the Citizenship Award each year. The idea was created by former Councillor Malcom Sparrow, who firmly believed in celebrating and promoting leadership and citizenship in our tamariki and rangatahi. There are now 13 schools throughout the northern suburbs who are part of this initiative.
The 2024 award was presented to Divan by Mayor Tory Whanau, and his citation was read out by Gar Kee, his very proud whānau teacher. Gar Kee, Brydon and Urs all attended the ceremony in Johnsonville on Friday, along with Divan's proud parents and his sister, Lika.
As Gar Kee explained to the audience, Divan embodies our Amesbury High Five values, and is a self assured, motivated, caring and connected member of Pōhutukawa Hub. Click on this link to read Gar Kee's speech in full.
It was a delight to share this wonderful occasion with Divan and his whānau, and we hope he is extremely proud of his empowering and confident leadership. Divan's name has now been added to the previous nine names on the citizenship shield that sits proudly in the cabinet in our reception area.
Tino kino te pai, Divan - well done!
