The Attitude Awards honour the outstanding achievements of New Zealanders living with disabilities. The winners and finalists remind us of the valuable contributions that are made by people living with a disability – whether it be economic, sporting, cultural or in any other area – and their stories inspire all of us to keep reaching for our goals.
ACC is proud to sponsor the Attitude ACC Employer Award and the Attitude ACC Supreme Award.
You can watch the Attitude Awards and find out more about them at: Attitude Awards 2011
Winners
Congratulations to the 2011 Winners.
Attitude ACC Supreme Award – Mike Gourley
Mike Gourley, journalist, researcher and host of the radio show One in Five was announced as the winner of the Attitude ACC Supreme Award at a black tie function at the Viaduct Events Centre in Auckland. He also won the Making a Difference Award which recognises an unsung hero who has made a significant contribution to improving the lives of people with disabilities.
His passion comes from living in the shoes of the people he supports. Born with a rare congenital condition, where his arms did not fully develop and also caused a heart condition, Mike has spoken out for people living with disabilities. He has advocated for the rights of disabled people to participate in the community, in workplaces and on the sports field on the same basis as their nondisabled counterparts. As a broadcaster he brings visibility to major disability issues in New Zealand and helps people living with disabilities tell their stories, ensuring their issues are heard by a mainstream public audience.
Attitude ACC Employer - Mission Heights Junior College -
Mission Heights Junior College embraces diversity by integrating Deaf employees and students into the day-to-day running of the school.
Courage in Sport - Patricia McQueen
Trish is a proud ambassador of what people with a disability can achieve. She creates her own opportunities and this year completed the Kapiti women’s triathlon
Sport Performer of the Year – Sophie Pascoe
New Zealand’s youngest Paralympic medallist, Sophie continues to dominate the world in swimming. She currently holds the 100m butterfly and 200m individual medley world records.
Artistic Achievement – Eddie Low
Eddie is a world renowned musician. Born blind, he plays totally by ear. Eddie says he’ll keep performing as long as people come to hear him.
Spirit of Attitude - Mark Grantham
Renowned for his inspirational and positive attitude, Mark has devoted much of his life to fundraising initiatives to help underprivileged children.
Youth Award - Gabrielle Hogg
At 23 years old, Gabrielle already has her own business. She uses her own experiences of growing up with autism to help parents of children with autistic spectrum disorder.
Making a Difference - Mike Gourley
A journalist, researcher and tireless advocate, Mike has helped ensure that the stories of people with disabilities are heard by mainstream, public audiences.
Hall of Fame - Mary Schnakenberg
During her 35 years working with the Foundation of the Blind, Mary has led change in accessing information, transport, telecommunications and even our nation’s currency.
More information
The Attitude Awards are a joint initiative between the Attitude Awards Trust and Attitude Pictures (producers of the TV show Attitude). You can find out more about the Attitude Awards and watch YouTube clips at: www.attitudepictures.com/attitude-awards.