Strong Voices

These days Nick Dow steers clear of recruiters. Their ‘tick-box’ approach defeats his attempts to get a job.

The past year will be remembered by most of us for COVID-19 and lockdowns. But that’s not the case for a group of extraordinary people who are beating a path to the winners’ podium this year.

We are going virtual for this year’s Te Anga Pāua o Aotearoa Kapa Haka Festival.

It was like an early Christmas. One after the other couriers arrived at IHC’s national office in Wellington bearing packages of all shapes and sizes. These were works that had made it through the judges’ first selection for the IHC Art Awards 2020.

Maureen, 83, has campaigned for more than 60 years for her eldest daughter, who was born with Down syndrome and autism, and for others with intellectual disabilities.

David Corner has signed off from his job as a representative for international disability organisation Inclusion International after 12 years of being a voice for the Asia-Pacific region.

Christine Lee believes in the power of storytelling to build acceptance of people with intellectual disabilities.

John Holdsworth ONZM didn’t say much about what he did for people, he just did it. His influence vastly improved the quality of life for people with intellectual disabilities.

For the past 30 years Frances’ short life has been remembered by Wellington Down Syndrome Association’s Frances Clarke Memorial Awards recognising outstanding achievements.

Accessible Properties tenant Garry Hopa is a laid-back kind of chap, but he sprang into action when he saw a dangerous fire.