To be eligible for this award, the nominee must be an individual who has made (or is making) a significant contribution to their region, town, suburb, community, iwi, or local group. The impact can be across any field or have displayed courage in overcoming personal adversity.
Nominators should consider talking about the following areas in their nomination:
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How do the Kiwibank Local Hero Awards work?
Sally Walker 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.
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New Zealand Local Hero of the Year
Steve Jurkovich
Kiwibank Chief Executive
“Kiwibank has been a part of New Zealander of the Year and the Local Hero Awards for over 14 years. It’s an ideal partnership for us as it is so aligned with our purpose to make Kiwi better off. The local heroes we are here celebrating tonight are making a difference to New Zealand communities that is real, lasting, and local. They’ve stood up to give others a voice of support, to break down social barriers and to tirelessly serve their community. More often than not, these are humble individuals. True local heroes aren’t in this for 15 minutes of fame, instead they care about the difference they are making in the lives of their friends, families and communities. It’s about how they are making Aotearoa and our communities better off too.”
Contact
PO Box 1158
Christchurch 8140 New Zealand
0508 692 927
office@nzawards.org.nz
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