The TECT Community Awards are launching online next week. While the original March event was postponed due to the lockdown, the move to an online format will see finalists and winners announced over six weeks on the TECT Facebook and website, starting Monday 22nd June.
TECT General Manager Wayne Werder says the move to an online format this year would allow the incredible work of community groups and volunteers to be shared with the broader community, in a new, innovative way.
“The lockdown has forced us all to think differently and outside the box, to look at innovative ways we can do things moving forward. We have seen just how powerful social media and digital platforms can be as a part of that; bringing us together to spark change for the betterment of us all.
“We’ve been inspired to see our community using digital connection to make a difference in the past few months, from community groups adapting to bring programmes online, to volunteers connecting with those in need over Facebook.
“We are looking forward to utilising that digital connection by hosting the TECT Community Awards online – this could be the future for similar events.”
Tauranga Mayor Tenby Powell says Tauranga City Council is delighted to see the TECT Community Awards will be going ahead, albeit digitally.
“Our community sector plays a massive role in making the Western Bay of Plenty a great place to live and it’s wonderful that the community groups and individuals who help to keep our region so strong will receive the recognition they deserve.”
Western Bay of Plenty Mayor Garry Webber says it is great that TECT has stepped in to support the celebration of the many community heroes that willingly provide their valuable contributions throughout our district.
“These awards are a reminder of the many unsung heroes and their great initiatives. Much of their valuable contribution is done under the radar and it is important that we acknowledge their efforts that make our local communities a better place to live.
“It is these people who enrich our communities and lift the spirits of those who they support through their selfless actions that we applaud. And we also give thanks to TECT for their valued support of those community heroes.”
One award category will be focused on each week. Videos offering a behind-the-scenes look at each finalist will be released every weekday, with a winner announced on Fridays.
There are 30 finalists in total, across six award categories: Event Excellence, Sustainable Future, Diversity and Inclusion, Rising Star, Youth Spirit, and the Volunteer of the Year Award. A Lifetime Service Award winner will also be announced.
Will Johnston will be hosting the virtual awards and says he is looking forward to showcasing those in our community who make the Western Bay of Plenty one of the greatest places to live.
“From community groups restoring our region and supporting those most vulnerable, to volunteers who give their time in so many ways, there is so much wonderful work happening around us. I’m looking forward to having a chat to a few of our legendary locals and maybe a laugh or two in the face of some challenging times!”
To join in the TECT Community Awards online, Like the TECT Facebook page today at www.facebook.com/TECTNZ.
To learn more and to view the Awards schedule, visit www.tect.org.nz/community-awards.
