Press Statement 20th November 2006

Manukau City Councillor Launches “Empowerment” Mural

Manukau City Councillor, Su’a William Sio launched the “Empowerment”Mural in Otara this morning by saying that at 165 metres long it could possibly be the largest mural in the world.

The mural is being painted by over 150 school children from 30 schools from all over Manukau City.

“This initiative means more to us in Manukau than just pictures and bright colours. This is a statement about the talents of all our young people throughout Manukau City. We are highlighting that they are the future leaders of our community. These young people are showing everyone they have community pride and a strong sense of belonging. These young people are being empowered to take control of their future. That’s what this mural symbolises.”

“This is the other side of Manukau and our young people that the media often doesn’t get to see or promote.”

Transpower and the Manukau Beautification Trust are sponsoring the mural-a-thon to paint the wall around the Otahuhu substation. The mural is being painted by students of local primary and secondary schools.

The wall was blessed at a dawn service this morning by local kaumatua.

ENDS

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