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Vodafone New Zealand Foundation recognizes inspirational Rotorua leader

Laurie Durand is one of seven inspiring recipients of the Vodafone New Zealand Foundation World of Difference programme for 2012. The recipients were announced at Parliament this week.

The Vodafone New Zealand Foundation provides the recipients' salary and expenses for a year while they work for a youth-related charity. Laurie will be using this opportunity to work as a Project Manager for the Rotorua Youth Centre.

Youth unemployment, Maori youth development and teen parenting are just some of the social issues which will be tackled by seven inspiring recipients of the Vodafone New Zealand Foundation World of Difference programme for 2012.

Vodafone New Zealand Foundation Chair Michael Stanley says the programme is about improving the health and wellbeing of young New Zealanders.
'We believe in the power of community organisations to deliver programmes to help young New Zealanders achieve their potential. This group of seven inspiring leaders will make a huge impact on the lives of young people in their communities, in areas where there is the most need.'

Minister of Social Development and Youth Affairs, Paula Bennett was on hand to congratulate the recipients, alongside Vodafone CEO Russell Stanners.
'In the last nine years 58 passionate individuals have won a Vodafone World of Difference Award, allowing them to continue going out into their communities and do just that - make a world of difference.'

The 2012 World of Difference participants are:
* Laurie Durand - Project Manager, Rotorua Youth Centre Trust (Rotorua)
* Darna Appleyard - Project Manager, Te Rau Aroha Trust (Waitakere)
* Grace Taylor - Project Leader, Action Education Incorporated (Manukau)
* James Widgery - Project Manager, VisionWest Community Trust (Waitakere)
* Junior Atua-Tavai - Young Dads Support Services Coordinator, HealthWEST Te Puna Manawa Community Services (Waitakere)
* Simon Britten - Commercial Manager, Te Ora Hou Otautahi Incorporated (Canterbury)
* Tina McColgan - Social and Health Manager, Murihiku Young Parents' Learning Centre Trust (Invercargill)

The World of Difference programme not only provides financial, but also a supportive environment where participants can share ideas, network and upskill during hui throughout the year.

For more information see www.vodafonenzfoundation.org.nz.