Last week the "Transition Expo" was opened by the newly appointed head of the new Ministry of Disabled People, Paula Tesoriero. Paula was previously the Disability Rights Commissioner at the NZ Human Rights Commission. This is the first Transition Expo, after a 2 year hiatus due to Covid19.
There were over 100 stands of various providers of services from vocational, employment, recreation, information and social enterprises. Students from various schools with Special Educational Needs Coordinators (SENCO) were present, together with parents and guardians.
One of those 100 stands was manned by St. Johns Rotary member, Ainie Kwok who took the opportunity to showcase D9920 upcoming inaugural “Breaking Barriers Disability Day” Camp to be held on 8 October 2022 at Sacred Heart College. The idea of the Day Camp, devised by Ainie, is to give opportunities and experiences to every young person and to show that disability should not be a barrier for them. For the participants and the young leaders, it will be an opportunity for them to connect with peers who they may otherwise not meet in their daily lives. (See promotional flyer at the end of this story).
The early morning start did not deter the ever so helpful team from St Johns – Miles, Aubrey, David & Gary to help set up the tables & chairs for the Expo at Auckland Netball Centre and special thanks also to Brian, Angus and Kevin for the afternoon session of super fast pack down and cleanup and to Murray and his leaf blower, makes sweeping the entire gymnasium a breeze. Can we do the same again on 8 October?
Click on "Read More" for photos of the all important helpers!!
