Sally Walker ONZM
New Zealand Local Hero of the Year
2024
Tower
New Zealand Local Hero of the Year
Te Pou Toko o te Tau
Sally Walker ONZM
Sally Walker ONZM is an inspiring and dedicated advocate for women, whose remarkable efforts have driven fundamental changes in the health care sector by raising awareness around the impact of severe surgical mesh injuries. Having faced enormous, significant complications from her own surgical mesh implants, Sally has effectively influenced health professionals, government entities, and NGOs to prioritise patient safety and wellbeing. Her courage in sharing her personal journey has helped prevent others from enduring similar experiences. In addition to her advocacy work, Sally voluntarily manages a health and disability support network comprising 92 women who, like her, have faced similar challenges. Sally’s relentless determination and the positive impact she has had on patient care have earned her numerous accolades. Notably, in August 2023, it was announced that all mesh surgeries in Aotearoa New Zealand would be halted because of safety concerns. Sally’s impactful work continues to leave its mark, resonating with women worldwide who seek her guidance and assistance.
This award acknowledges those whose actions have had a significant and lasting impact in their communities. These quiet champions don’t wait for change – they create it. With conviction, care, and follow-through, our Local Hero recipients reflect the Aotearoa we all want to live in.
Nominees of this Award must:
- Be an individual who has made (or is making) a significant contribution to their region, town, suburb, community (be it geographical community, or community of specific interest), iwi, or local group.
- Have had significant impact over the last 12 months.
- Be a role model for New Zealanders and highlight selflessness for their community.
- Meet Awards Conditions of Entry.
Judges will review each nominee using the following criteria:
- 10 points: OVERALL INSPIRATION:
Describe the person you are nominating and what they’ve done to inspire you over the past year to nominate them as New Zealand Local Hero of the Year Te Pou Toko o te Tau. - 10 points: PURPOSE:
Who benefits from the work, contribution, or influence of this person – and how? - 10 points: LEADERSHIP:
How does this person set a positive example for other members of their local community? - 10 points: COMMITMENT:
Describe the commitment of time, risks, and challenges overcome to create an impact to this point (this may still be ongoing). What have they done that has gone above and beyond to show leadership, create change, and give back? - 10 points: PROVEN IMPACT:
How has this person clearly demonstrated a positive impact in their local community? (be it geographical community, or community of specific interest).
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How do the New Zealand Local Hero Awards work?
- All Local Hero nominations are divided up into their regions across Aotearoa.
- Nominations for each region are then sent on to the panel Local Hero Judges for that area, for their consideration – who score the nominees based on the criteria above.
- The top 100 (highest scoring) Local Hero nominees across New Zealand will be honoured as the Local Hero Medallists.
- The 100 Local Hero Medallists will also go forward into the next round of Awards judging, to be considered for the national title of New Zealand Local Hero of the Year Te Pou Toko o te Tau. The 10 semi-finalists for this national title will be announced in December, the top three finalists in February, and the ultimate winner will be revealed at our Awards Gala in March.
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New Zealand Local Hero of the Year
