We are honoured and delighted to commemorate the individuals and programmes that have played a significant role in the transformation of Aotearoa by nurturing flourishing communities. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to the following individuals and organisations for their outstanding achievements. It is truly wonderful to have the opportunity to recognise the exceptional work carried out on behalf of adult learners across Aotearoa.
Our 2023 recipients are:
Jade Ward - Educator of the year Tangata Whenua
Jade Ward, a former schoolteacher hailing from Tainui, is now the driving force behind her own community education organisation located just outside Invercargill. In late 2020, she established ... Read more
This award recognises Māori Educators for outstanding service in, and contribution to, the development and delivery of adult and community education (for Māori). It is intended to be a tribute for outstanding work in teaching, training, administration, or a combination of these.
Anne-Marie Rose - Educator of the year Tangata Tiriti
Anne-Marie Rose is an exceptional and highly valued colleague at the Hagley Adult Literacy Centre (HALC), where she wears multiple hats with great competence. As a tutor, mentor, ACE Assistant, and Volunteer Coordinator, she manages ... Read more
This award recognises an individual for outstanding service in, and contribution to, the development and delivery of adult and community education. It is intended to be a tribute for outstanding work in teaching, training, administration, or a combination of these.
Mana Rangatahi Programme INNOV8HQ - Community Programme of the year Tangata Whenua
The Mana Rangatahi programme, created by Heidi Renata, co-founder and CEO of INNOV8HQ based in Dunedin, has empowered over 150 individuals aged 18 to 24 to discover ... Read more
This award recognises an adult learning programme for Māori learners that has achieved outstanding learning outcomes through innovative programme development, creative implementation and sound evaluation.
First Steps to Literacy Hagley Adult Literacy Centre - Community Programme of the year Tangata Tiriti
The dedicated team at Hagley Adult Literacy Centre (HALC) in Ōtautahi Christchurch is deeply committed to delivering excellence in adult education. Through their wide range of ... Read more
This award recognises an adult learning programme that has achieved outstanding learning outcomes through innovative programme development, creative implementation and sound evaluation.
Ngarau Tarawa - Member of the year Tangata Whenua
Ngarau Tarawa, hailing from Taumarunui, has made significant contributions to various adult education organisations. She has served as an executive member of ... Read more
This award recognises an ACE Aotearoa member for outstanding service in, and contribution to, the development of the ACE Sector. It is intended to be a tribute for outstanding work in governance, policy development, training, administration, or a combination of these.
Wendel Karati - Member of the year Tangata Tiriti
Wendel Karaiti dedicated many years of exceptional service as the Education Manager at REAP Wairarapa. With an intimate understanding of her community, Wendel possessed a ... Read more
This award recognises an ACE Aotearoa member for outstanding service in, and contribution to, the development of the ACE Sector. It is intended to be a tribute for outstanding work in governance, policy development, training, administration, or a combination of these.