Waitakere Indian Association (WIA), which has been operating for over a decade scored a higher notch recently, making a difference for the ethnic Indian and larger NZ communities.
The Association won the ‘Community Arts and Culture Award’ at the ‘Infratil Community Awards’ ceremony held at the Auckland Council Chambers in Henderson in December 2011.
The Awards are a partnership between Auckland Council and Infratil Ltd to recognise the outstanding work of volunteer groups and organisations in Waitakere.
The Award carried a trophy, certificate, and $500 cash prize.
WIA Immediate past president Manoj Tahal, Secretary Roneel Singh and executive member Mahendra Sharma attended the ceremony.
“This award is a great recognition of WIA’s hard work in the community and I thank everyone for their efforts and contributions in making WIA such a reputable organisation in the community”, Mr Singh said.
President Anand Naidu commended the hard work, professional commitment and volunteering spirit of the members of the executive committee.
“We are honoured to have this group of dedicated people who have been providing commendable service to the communities not only in West Auckland but also in the wider community in New Zealand,” he said.
The following were the winners and runners-up in various categories:
Heritage and Environment: Winner-Ark in the Park Partnership; Runner-up- West Lynn Garden Society.
Health and Wellbeing: Winner-Henderson Riding for the Disabled; Runner-up-Waitakere Pacific Wardens.
Arts and Culture: Winner-Waitakere Indian Association; Runner-up- Pacifica Mamas.
Sport and Leisure: Winner- Sport Recreation and Outdoor Trust; Runner-up: Suss-It.
Education and Child Youth Development:Winner- St John Youth (West Auckland); Runner-up- Big Buddy.
Thakur Ranjit Singh is a community worker and CEO of Media Relations Limited, an event management and media promotions company. He is also a regular contributor to Indian Newslink. Email: thakurji@xtra.co.nz
