Source: Government House
The achievements of people with Down syndrome will be celebrated at Government House Wellington on Friday 23 October, when the Governor-General, Her Excellency The Right Honourable Dame Cindy Kiro, GNZM, QSO, and His Excellency Dr Richard Davies host the New Zealand Down Syndrome Association’s (NZDSA) National Achievement Awards.
The ceremony takes place during Down Syndrome Awareness Month, which celebrates the contributions of people with Down syndrome and promotes greater understanding and inclusion. The awards recognise individual achievements across a range of fields, as well as the encouragement and support of the families, teachers, coaches, and others who help people pursue their aspirations.
The event also marks the NZDSA’s 45th anniversary. Established in Auckland in 1981 by mothers seeking information and support for their families, the association has grown into a nationwide, family-driven organisation that supports people with Down syndrome and their whānau, raises public awareness, and advocates for their rights and inclusion.
This year’s ceremony also sees the Frances Clarke Award included the national awards for the first time. Established in memory of Frances Clarke, who died from leukaemia aged three in 1989, the award celebrates the achievements of people with Down syndrome and those who support them. The first Frances Clarke Awards were presented at Government House in 1990 by Sir Paul and Lady Reeves.