Speech
Frances Clarke Memorial Awards 2012
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Kia ora, nga mihi māhana ki a koutou. Hello and warm greetings to you all.
I specifically acknowledge: Charlotte Gendall, Kate Young, Catherine Hansen and other members of the Wellington Down Syndrome Association executive; Pam and Forde Clarke, parents of the late Frances Clarke; Paul Ifill, our guest speaker today; and this year’s Award recipients: Vanya Hope Reedy, Aden Young, Moses Siow and Keegan Joe.
It is a great pleasure for my wife Janine and me to welcome you all to Government House today. This is the second time that the Frances Clarke Memorial Awards Ceremony has been held here at Government House Wellington, during my time as Governor-General. As some may recall, last year Lady Janine hosted the Awards Ceremony because I had to travel to Saudi Arabia.
Janine remembers it well. It was the first time she delivered a speech, and presented awards on my behalf. I heard from all quarters that she did a marvellous job, and so I hope you’re not too disappointed that it’s back to me this year!
Hosting the Frances Clarke Memorial Awards each year is important to us for three reasons; The recognition of achievement, the celebration of the calibre of young people in New Zealand, and the promotion of inclusive values that embrace all New Zealanders, no matter what their circumstance.
In this company I have little need to explain the circumstances and frequency of occurrence of Down Syndrome. Our hope is that one day research might provide answers as to why it affects one child in every thousand born in New Zealand.
As I said in my address at this year’s T4T World Down Syndrome Day Celebration: Those born with the condition didn’t have a choice. However, as a community, we have the choice to embrace and include them as contributing members of our society. It’s important that every child has the opportunity to be the best they can be.
Nelson Mandela said: “Disabled children are equally entitled to an exciting and brilliant future” and the Frances Clarke Memorial Awards reflect that sentiment.
Today we celebrate four young New Zealanders who have Down Syndrome. Each has an inspirational story that speaks of confidence, positivity, and a determination to succeed.
The Awards recognise these four exceptional young New Zealanders. They, despite the daily difficulties they encountered, chose to do the very best they could in everything they put their mind and hand to. And they were successful, and importantly they were noticed!
Vanya, Aden, Moses and Keegan – I am very pleased and privileged to be able to recognise your outstanding achievements. Each of you is a wonderful role model to those around you, and your being here will certainly inspire others to follow your example. And, I can see on the faces of your families and friends that you have brought great joy to them too.
Kia ora huihui tātou katoa.