AUT student shows spirit at the 2017 Attitude Awards

An AUT student has been heralded for her advocacy work at last week’s Attitude Awards.

Celebrating the achievements of people who live with disabilities, the awards are the only national televised event celebrating the achievements of New Zealanders living with disabilities. The black-tie gala ceremony held at Auckland’s ANZ Viaduct Event Centre recognises artists, athletes, employers, young people, and game-changers.

The judges picked Geneva because of her work to change people’s views on what young people living with disabilities can achieve.

Acting as a voice for children who are finding theirs, Geneva is also working with TalkLink to make the computerised communication devices more advanced and accessible for people. It’s hoped that in the future the devices will come with a Kiwi accent and speak Te Reo.

“I feel extremely humbled to have received not only my category award, Spirit of Attitude but the Attitude ACC Supreme Award. It is an awesome acknowledgement to those who have supported me throughout my life, especially my parents.

Everything has happened at the most appropriate time; I officially finished university last Wednesday after five years, I received two major awards on Thursday and I graduate in a month which I am really looking forward to. Being recognised at the Attitude Awards gives me even more determination and drive to continue my passion of raising disability awareness within our society,” says Geneva.