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AN award celebrating the positive actions of young people has moved up to a new home – the prestigious St James Theatre.
The Pride Awards, now in their second year, are presented to children between the ages of five and 17 who have made an outstanding contribution to their families and communities in the last year.
They were held last year at the Quality Hotel on Cuba St and founder Moses Ariama (right) is delighted with the move, made possible through sponsorship from the theatre’s management.
“Holding the awards ceremony there raises the bar,” Moses says.
“It creates more presence and a sense of glamour for the children. It also means that we have space to grow the awards.”
Some of last year’s prizes were awarded by members of the Hurricanes and the Children’s Commissioner at the time, John Angus.
The Hurricanes are involved again this year, providing sponsorship of the Health and Fitness Award and a partial contribution to the Carer’s Award.
This year, Moses is requesting a visit from the Prime Minister.
Establishing the awards has been a natural progression for Moses, who also works with children at Pride Lands, a before- and after-school care programme.
He says congratulating children on their achievements can counteract negative stories reported by mainstream media.
“If we reward children now for what they do, they will grow up to be adults who contribute,” he says.
“We need to show young people that we care.”
Sponsorship from the Wellington community has been generous – Wellington City Council’s Grow Wellington programme has offered a business mentor for the winner of the Bright Sparks Award, and The Radio Network has pledged a live radio interview for the winner of the Positive Attitude Award.
Moses attributes his interest in community involvement to his grandfather, who taught him that people can make things happen.
“You don’t have to wait for the city council or the government.”
He has faced suggestions the awards are of little relevance, contribute nothing to the economy and misdirect money and resources from areas like poverty and crime.
But he remains resolute, and says it is obvious society and the economy can be improved only by growing healthy, confident adults.
“At the end of the day, the important things are very close to us.”
THE DETAILS
The second annual Pride Awards – December 17, 2011.
Nominations have closed, but judges have agreed to accept late nominations until August 20.
Nominations can be made by schools, families and friends, or people can nominate themselves.
