We are thrilled to announce our VIP guest speaker for our charity night on the 6th May – Sir John Kirwan!
Sir John Kirwan MBE OBE KNZM is often best known for his international career in rugby as one of the highest try scorers in rugby union history. What was less known is that during his remarkable rugby career he was silently battling anxiety and depression.
On stepping down from the international rugby spotlight, JK began talking openly about his battles with depression, bringing the then stigma of mental health into the public arena as the spokesperson for the New Zealand government’s mental health awareness campaign. It was for this work, as well as his rugby career, that he was honoured with a knighthood.
Over the years JK has continued to lead public awareness into mental health and wellbeing, founding the Sir John Kirwan Foundation Mitey as well as writing about his depression in the books ‘All Blacks Don’t Cry’ and ‘Stand by Me’.
JK believes that in order for New Zealand to have the best mental health in the world, we must provide children with consistent opportunities to practice and learn good mental health skills every day at school, Mitey does just that.
‘’It’s a proven approach to educating NZ children around all aspects of mental health so they are well positioned to deal with life when it gets tough. And that’s exciting.”
WHY NEW ZEALAND NEEDS MITEY
The last few years have brought increased awareness of the alarming number of children experiencing mental health issues in New Zealand. Teachers know that anxious and unhappy children find it difficult to learn. If children are mentally and emotionally healthy they are better equipped to face the challenges life brings.
Join us on May 6th at Harcourts, Takapuna - 128 Hurstmere Road, Takapuna, to raise funds to support our charities Mitey, Belgravia, Ronald McDonald house, Inspire and Raise up.
Hosted by Team NZBLUE – Ben, Aaron, Mark and Phil, this is an evening not to be missed with food & drink provided as well as lots of entertainment from our crown karaoke and charity auction.
With your help we can help to raise our goal of $100k for children and youth charities in New Zealand!
It’s going to be an amazing event and we can’t wait to celebrate with you all!
Get your tickets here!!
Can't attend but would still love to support us? Click here!
