In association with Westpac, we launched the inaugural nzgirl Actionista Awards to recognise local, national and international Actionistas who are shining examples of women who are doing us all proud.
The votes are in, we've counted them and the judges have deliberated. Who are the big winners of the nzgirl Actionista Awards 08?
What the judges said: “I love that Kate is actively involved in the sustainability discussion via the Sustainable Business Network, her commitment to manufacture in NZ, her honesty and acknowledgement of the sustainability issues that are associated with the whole industry and that despite this she is doing what she can in her business.” Suzie
“Kate wins a place in my heart as she is a successful NZ designer committed to 100 per cent NZ made clothing while being a regular Kiwi mum. To top it off she has become a NZ Eco Queen with a desire to inspire others in her quest for sustainability, promoting NZ to remain clean and green.” Bianca
Honourable Mentions: Brooke Fraser and Petra Bagust
What the judges said: “I’ve had the pleasure of working with Claire on a few occasions and wholeheartedy agree with the sentiments that we received from voters. I love that she saw a community need and filled that with a great idea! A true Actionista and one that has touched wide areas of our community” Tee
“Think of your backyard and how much you love it. Now think of it covered with old junk…not so good? Claire is an amazing nzgirl whose actions speak louder than words. Her steps forward are helping NZ communities and the gorgeous country that we are so lucky to live in.” Bianca
What the judges said: “Malcom and the Eco Store family have been around before it was cool to be green and eco – and they’re still here now. I love Malcolm’s drive to get the message out there that it’s not (just) about saving the world, it’s about saving ourselves as well and improving our quality of life. That and I love their oxygen whitener!” Tee
“They were passionate about environmental sustainability before it became de rigueur. I also really appreciate their business philosophy of 'giving back' a portion of their profits to further sustainability in our community.” Suzie
What the judges said: “A fantastic initiative and well designed site” Suzie
“Using this site means that like Claire you are taking steps forward as every journey begins with the first step. “You must be the change you wish to see in the world” Bianca
WINNER: Global Actionista: Angelina Jolie
What the judges said: "We love a gal that marches to the beat of her own drum. Ange lives in her own world and chooses to do good whether it’s adopting into her brood or raising much needed awareness on topical issues." Tee “Angelina has done some inspiring work and she certainly does march to her own drum which is great in a female role model. “ Suzie
"Devotion is the word I would use to describe Ange. Devotion deserves respect and this is what I have for Ange and her quest to help humankind." Bianca
Judging Panel
Tee Twyford, nzgirl editor “We are all about engaging and empowering you, our nzgirl readers to have a say and make a stand so this is a great chance to get involved. I’m also particularly excited about the Actionista awards being a way of celebrating people and companies who are making a difference to this world in their own way. I can’t wait to discover the role models that you guys most admire”
Suzie Marsden, Westpac’s Head of Corporate Responsibility “Actionista is going really wide with this campaign, profiling unsung heroes as well as well known New Zealanders who are all working together to ensure this planet has longevity. The holistic approach is essential – it’s vital that all New Zealanders get excited, not only about environmental sustainability, but also social responsibility – being good neighbours, increasing people’s health and well being, helping to sustain the good things about living in New Zealand.
Westpac is passionate about sustainability in all these areas, and that’s expressed well in our motto: Making the most of life. We try to live it through community involvement, sponsorship and best practice in sustainability.”
Bianca Talaic, Bare PR Account Manager “Bare PR is an organic, eco friendly PR comapany, so being involved in this campaign gives me the chance to encourage and inspire like-minded individuals and celebrate the people making a difference to our precious planet. “