2014 Youth Excellence Award Recipients
The 2014 Civic Awards Ceremony, held at Te Takere on 25 November 2014 and hosted by Horowhenua District Mayor Brendan Duffy, celebrated and acknowledged the successes of a number of young people, and the significant contribution made by volunteers over many years to our community. Several people attended the ceremony where 12 young people received Youth Excellence Scholarships.
Recipients were:
- Amy Horn (Sport) - In four short years, Amy has progressed from her first ‘Try Track Cycling’ event with the Levin Cycling Club, to podium finishes at regional and national events. Amy's ultimate goal is to represent New Zealand at the 2020 Olympic Games.
- Connor Mitchell (Sport) - Connor has been an active member of the Salton Taekwondo Academy for five years, and in that time has tallied up an impressive record of achievements. In 2015 he plans to complete a Taekwondo instructors course, officials course and first aid course.
- Daemon Kennett (Academia) - Daemon has a top level schooling history, receiving Excellence endorsements for NCEA Levels 1 and 2. In 2015 Daemon will head to Wellington to begin a Bachelor of Science majoring in Mathematics and Physics, at Victoria University.
- Hannah McMillan (Art and Culture) - Hannah is multitalented in the Arts, and has enjoyed her appointment as Arts Captain at Horowhenua College this year. Hannah’s plan for 2015 is to head to Whitireia to pursue a Musical Theatre course consisting of singing, acting and dancing.
- Hayley Goodyer (Sport) - Hayley has played age representative hockey for Horowhenua since 2007. In 2009, her team won the National Collier trophy and she was celebrated as MVP of her team. In December she will head off with the Junior Black Sticks to compete in Australia.
- Liam McLeavey (Community Services) - Liam is passionate about the Horowhenua District and endeavours to be involved in the Horowhenua Community as much as possible. Liam plans to use his Scholarship to assist with funding the Youth Jobs website.
- Nicole Robinson (Sport) - Although she is Horowhenua's youngest Dog Trainer, Nicole Robinson already has an impressive seven years experience under her belt. Nicole is recognised as a role model for younger members and gives her time to train others in Agility and dog skills.
- Piahana Te Hiwi White (Art and Culture) - Piahana is only 12 years old and already has a history of achievements as a cultural performer, sportsman and leader amongst his peers. In 2015 Piahana is endeavouring on an intensive college education at Manukura Secondary School.
- Roha Taiapa (Art and Culture) - Roha has not only excelled in the area of performing arts and dance, but most importantly has been a leader, mentor and motivator for many of his peers.
- Shannen-Lee Calder (Academia) - Shannen-Lee has excelled in the area of Academia, as reflected by her appointment as an Academic Prefect at Manawatu College. In 2015 she will continue to fulfil her dream of being a nurse when she undertakes a Bachelor of Nursing at Massey University.
- Sophie-Leigh Bloxham (Sport) - Sophie-Leigh has an impressive list of accomplishments in both track and road cycling. Sophie’s ultimate goal is to be an Olympic Games Track Champion for New Zealand.
- Trent Smith (Sport) - Trent has risen to impressive heights in basketball. He has now set his eyes upon a top level academic record when he begins NCEA next year, so that ultimately he can secure a scholarship to study and play basketball at an American college.