From women’s soccer to advocacy in mental health, well-being, governance, and domestic violence, Pacific people have been recognised as finalists in the New Zealanders of the Year Awards 2024.
Leading the list is Dame Sarai Bareman, finalist for New Zealander of the year award. From Auckland, Sarai kicked off her administration role in the sport moving to the Pacific where she was the finance manager for the Football Federation of Samoa.
Her journey took her onto the global scene in 2016 when she was made the FIFA inaugural Chief of Womens’ Football where she oversees the game in 211 countries. Dame Bareman was instrumental in the successful delivery of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup held in New Zealand and Australia.
A finalist for the Young New Zealander of the Year, Josiah Tualamali’i has continued to be a strong advocate in the mental health and wellbeing sector and has played key roles in governance positions with the NZ Children’s Commissioner, where he champions children’s rights, advises the government and advocating for systemic change. A proud Cantebrian Josiah also co-established the Pacific Youth Parliament (PYLAT)
Also coming from Christchurch is Matt Brown who is a finalist for the Local Hero of the Year Award. Matt is a respected author and advocate to eliminate domestic violence in the country. Matt, alongside his wife, partnered up with the Ministry of Social Development working on the ‘It’s Not Ok’ campaign. The couple also created the InnerBoy App promoting accessible healing for Men.
The winners for the seven categories will be announced at a special awards ceremony held next week in Auckland. The awards not only honour those who use their passion to make New Zealand a better place, but recognise a diverse range of Kiwis making a difference.
