Minister of Disability Issues congratulates 2014 QB recipients

Minister of Disability Issues, Tariana Turia, has commented on the outstanding talent of disabled persons and those working in the disability sector which has been recognised in the 2014 Queens Birthday Honours.

“Minnie Baragwanath (MNZM) has played a leading role in social change for disabled New Zealanders over the last two decades. As Chief Executive of the Be.Institute she has influenced employers, local government and the community to aspire towards a fully accessible New Zealand. Her charismatic personality and optimistic spirit has made a huge impact in shaping attitudes, including establishing an expectation during the Rugby World Cup of an accessible Auckland”.

Rachel Noble (MNZM) has worked fearlessly to promote New Zealand Sigh Language in every sphere of our community including during the Christchurch earthquakes, and in establishing Sign Language Week and iSign. As a deaf person Rachel has brought a huge passion and energy to her leadership role, and can be proud of the difference made.

“I am delighted to see Robyn Scott-Vincent (MNZM) honoured for the social change she has inspired as CEO of Attitude Pictures for the Attitude television programme, the Attitude Awards Gala evening and the website Attitudelive.com”.

“Mark Benjamin (QSM) has made a significant contribution towards change in his leadership of the Enabling Good Lives approach. His role in setting the standard that disabled people and their families should act as evaluators of services is world-leading.”

“Ruth Jones (QSM) (Rongowhakaata, Te Aitanga a Mahaki and Ngati Porou) has been a longterm member of the Disabled Persons Assembly. In 2011 she established the Christchurch Earthquake Disability Leadership Group to ensure that the voice of disabled persons is heard in the recovery efforts. Ruth is the Chair of Workbridge, is on the Te Wai Pounamu Regional Leadership Group for Whanau Ora and is a member of the National Taskforce for Stopping Violence within Families.

Toni Sharp (QSM) has contributed to services for the blind and visually impaired at both a local level in Taupo, and across the nation through her many roles with the Royal New Zealand Foundation for the Blind.

Charmeyne Te Nana Williams (QSM) is the Director of Whatever it takes Home based rehabilitation and support through which she has assisted many disabled persons and their families to get back in control of their lives. She has been a Whanau Ora champion since 2012”.

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