Canon New Zealand Grants Empower Local Initiatives Driving Social & Environmental Impact
Auckland, New zealand – Canon New Zealand has announced the recipients of its annual Grants Program, awarding significant funding to four impactful community organisations dedicated to fostering positive change across new Zealand. The programme, reflecting Canon’s core belief in the power of community and technology, supports initiatives focused on community wellbeing, environmental conservation, cultural inclusivity, and education. This year’s winners – Ko Wai Au Trust, Moths and Butterflies of new Zealand trust, Deaf Way, and Climate Action Campus Ōtautahi – exemplify the dedication and innovation driving progress at the grassroots level.
This investment underscores Canon’s commitment to more than just technological advancement; it’s a commitment to empowering the peopel and projects that build a stronger, more sustainable, and equitable New Zealand. As Kotaro Fukushima, Managing Director for Canon Oceania, explains, “Canon’s belief that community is the fabric of our society is at the heart of everything we do, and technology can play an significant role in sharing stories and bringing people together. This year’s Grants Programme winners are a powerful example of that belief in action, and we are proud to celebrate the spirit behind their work. We share in their celebrations and look forward to seeing how these grants make a real and lasting difference across New Zealand.”
Understanding the Importance of Community-Led Solutions
The Canon Grants Programme isn’t simply about financial support; it’s about recognizing the vital role local organisations play in addressing complex challenges. These groups are often the first responders, deeply embedded within the communities they serve, and uniquely positioned to understand and respond to specific needs. By providing resources, Canon is amplifying their existing efforts and enabling them to reach a wider audience, ultimately strengthening their long-term sustainability.
Spotlight on the 2024 Canon Grants Programme Recipients:
1. Community Award: Ko Wai Au Trust - Empowering Rangatahi in Te Awamutu
Based in Te Awamutu, the Ko Wai Au Trust is a lifeline for over 200 rangatahi (young people) annually. Recognizing the critical importance of early intervention, the Trust provides holistic support addressing a wide range of needs, from practical assistance like opening bank accounts and securing work experience, to vital mental health services. A significant portion of referrals come directly from families and caregivers, demonstrating growing awareness of the Trust’s valuable services.
the Canon Grant will be instrumental in allowing Ko Wai Au Trust to effectively communicate its impact and gather crucial feedback from the young people it serves. As Co-Founder and General Manager Georgina Christie states, “winning this Grant will help empower our team to capture and share the true impact of our work and create a platform for rangatahi to provide feedback.” This focus on storytelling and direct engagement will be key to refining their programs and expanding their reach.
2. Environment Award: Moths and Butterflies of new Zealand Trust – Unlocking the Secrets of Aotearoa’s Lepidoptera
The Moths and Butterflies of New Zealand Trust is dedicated to the conservation of New Zealand’s unique and often overlooked native butterfly and moth species. The organisation plays a crucial role in educating the public, providing resources to schools and gardening groups, and offering expert advice on creating habitats that support these vital pollinators.
The Canon Grant will directly support critical research into New Zealand’s copper butterflies, a group suspected to contain more species than currently identified. Accurate species identification is paramount for effective conservation efforts. Trust Secretary Jacqui Knight emphasizes, “We can’t save our butterflies if we can’t identify the different species, and Canon’s technology makes that possible.” This investment in scientific accuracy will have a lasting impact on the preservation of Aotearoa’s biodiversity.
3. Cultural award: Deaf Way – Bridging the Information gap for the Deaf Community
Deaf Way, a charity founded by a dedicated husband-and-wife team, is a champion for the Deaf community, working to dismantle barriers and promote inclusivity. They achieve this through the creation of accessible online courses covering essential life skills such as budgeting, health management, and self-advocacy.
The Canon Grant will enable Deaf Way to develop a new course focused on financial literacy, specifically tailored to the needs of both the Deaf and Turi Māori communities.Founder David Brown highlights the systemic challenges faced by the Deaf community, stating, “This Grant will ensure Deaf Way continues to create awareness about the Deaf community as well as improve the information inequity the Deaf community faces.” This initiative directly addresses a critical need and empowers individuals wiht the knowledge to navigate financial complexities.
4. Education Award: Climate Action Campus Ōtautahi – Cultivating Future Environmental Leaders
Climate Action Campus Ōtautahi is a dynamic hub for hands-on environmental education, empowering